Bollywood star Ranveer Singh has found himself at the center of a significant controversy following his actions at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. The actor is facing severe criticism for mimicking the sacred 'Daiva' possession sequence from the blockbuster film 'Kantara', despite a specific request from the film's creator, Rishab Shetty, to refrain from doing so.
The Incident at IFFI Goa
The event took place during the festival in Goa. According to reports, Rishab Shetty, the director and star of 'Kantara', had personally asked Ranveer Singh not to mimic or recreate the intense and culturally significant 'Daiva' possession scene. This scene is deeply rooted in the traditional 'Daivaradhane' or spirit worship practices of the Tulu Nadu region of Karnataka.
However, Ranveer Singh proceeded to perform an imitation of the sequence. A video of this act was captured and subsequently posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by a user named Vije on November 29, 2025. The clip quickly gained traction across the internet.
Public Outrage and Viral Backlash
The public reaction was swift and largely negative. The viral video ignited a firestorm of criticism, with many social media users and observers labeling the act as unnecessary and disrespectful. A significant portion of the outrage stems from the perception that the actor disregarded the cultural and religious sanctity of the 'Daivaradhane' tradition for mere entertainment.
Comments on the post accused movie stars of going to great lengths for fame and money while showing zero respect for sacred beliefs. One viral post directly questioned, "How low these movie stars can go for fame, money with zero respect for sacred Tulunad Daivaradhane beliefs? Shame." The post also tagged both Ranveer Singh and Rishab Shetty, noting that Shetty appeared to be present during the mimicry.
Cultural Context and Lasting Impact
'Kantara' is celebrated not just as a cinematic success but as a profound representation of the indigenous culture and folklore of coastal Karnataka. The 'Daiva' sequences are not fictional dramatizations but are inspired by real, deeply held spiritual practices. This context makes the mimicry particularly sensitive.
As of December 01, 2025, the controversy continues to trend online, raising broader questions about the boundaries of celebrity behavior and cultural appropriation in mainstream entertainment. The incident highlights the fine line between appreciation and disrespect when engaging with regional traditions that hold immense sacred value for their communities. The fallout serves as a reminder of the responsibility public figures carry when interacting with culturally specific content.
