Bollywood star Ranveer Singh has found himself at the centre of a major controversy following his recent performance at a high-profile event. The actor is facing severe backlash for his imitation of a pivotal and spiritually significant scene from the blockbuster film Kantara, an act that many have labelled as deeply disrespectful to cultural traditions.
What Happened at IFFI Goa 2025?
The incident took place on December 1, 2025, during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. As part of his act, Ranveer Singh chose to mimic the climactic 'Daiva Chavundi' possession scene from the critically acclaimed Kannada film Kantara. The original scene is a powerful depiction of a divine, ancestral spirit (Daiva) and is revered for its authentic portrayal of the Bhoota Kola ritual, sacred to the Tulu Nadu region of Karnataka.
In his rendition, Singh reportedly referred to the divine entity as a 'female ghost', a description that has become a primary point of contention. While the actor later clarified that his act was intended as a tribute to his friend and Kantara's lead star Rishab Shetty, the damage was already done. The audience and later, social media users, perceived it as a trivialisation of a profound cultural and spiritual belief system.
Public Outrage and Accusations of Insensitivity
The backlash was swift and intense. Viewers and cultural commentators took to various platforms to condemn the performance. Many accused the star of crossing a line by turning a sacred ritual into mere entertainment for a film festival audience. The core of the anger lies in the perceived reduction of the 'Daiva'—a revered guardian spirit—to a simplistic and scary 'ghost' figure, stripping it of its religious and cultural context.
Kantara's success was largely built on its respectful and immersive depiction of local folklore and traditions. Fans of the film argue that Singh's act, despite its stated good intentions, demonstrated a lack of understanding and sensitivity towards the very elements that made the movie resonate with millions. The debate quickly moved beyond the single incident, igniting a wider conversation about the responsibilities of mainstream entertainers when portraying regional cultural practices.
The Broader Debate on Cultural Representation
This controversy has reopened ongoing discussions about cultural appropriation and sensitivity in Indian cinema and public performances. Questions are being raised about the need for thorough research and consultation with cultural custodians before such portrayals are attempted on national stages. The incident underscores a recurring tension between artistic expression and the sanctity of traditional beliefs.
While Ranveer Singh is known for his energetic and often bold performances, this episode serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between tribute and transgression. The public reaction highlights a growing demand for authentic and respectful representation of India's diverse cultural heritage in mainstream media. The fallout from the IFFI Goa 2025 ceremony is likely to influence how artists and event curators approach culturally significant content in the future.
