Bollywood star Ranveer Singh has publicly expressed regret for a performance that stirred significant controversy at a major film festival. The incident occurred during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025.
The Performance That Sparked Debate
During the high-profile event, Singh presented an act inspired by the blockbuster film 'Kantara'. However, his rendition was met with criticism from sections of the audience and online commentators, who found it to be an unnecessary or inappropriate interpretation. The performance quickly became a talking point on social media, leading to widespread discussion.
Clarifying Intent and Issuing an Apology
In response to the backlash, Ranveer Singh took the step of issuing a clear apology. He stated that his intention was solely to highlight and celebrate the work of 'Kantara' creator and star Rishab Shetty. Singh described his own act as 'unnecessary' and expressed remorse for any offense caused. The apology was formally issued on December 2, 2025.
Repercussions and Industry Reaction
The episode underscores the sensitive nature of adapting culturally significant work for a mainstream platform. While Singh's immediate apology aimed to control the narrative, it has sparked broader conversations about artistic interpretation and respect for source material within the Indian film industry. The focus has now shifted to the original creator, Rishab Shetty, and his acclaimed film 'Kantara', which continues to be a major cultural reference point.
This event at IFFI 2025 serves as a reminder of the fine line performers walk when paying tribute to iconic cinema, especially when it resonates deeply with a specific cultural ethos.
