A fresh controversy has engulfed Bollywood star Ranveer Singh, as a formal police complaint was lodged against him in Bengaluru on December 4, 2025. The complaint targets his recent act of mimicking a sacred 'Daiva' possession scene from the blockbuster film 'Kantara: Chapter 1'.
The Core of the Controversy
The incident occurred during a stage appearance at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Singh's mimicry of the intense, spiritually charged performance from the Tulu-language film did not sit well with sections of the audience. A lawyer subsequently approached the High Grounds Police Station in Bengaluru to file the complaint. The core allegation is that the actor's actions hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus, with a specific mention of the deep offence caused to the Tulu-speaking community of Karnataka, for whom the Daiva tradition is a revered cultural and spiritual practice.
Apology Fails to Quell Legal Action
This legal move comes just a day after Ranveer Singh attempted to douse the flames by issuing a public apology. The actor had clarified that his imitation was intended as a tribute to the original powerful performance in the film, not as an act of disrespect. However, the complainant and supporters argue that certain cultural and religious contexts are too sacred for casual replication on an entertainment stage, rendering the apology insufficient in their view.
Widespread Debate and Cultural Sensitivities
The episode has ignited a widespread debate both online and offline, highlighting the delicate balance between artistic expression and religious sensitivity in India. Discussions are raging on social media platforms, with netizens divided. One side condemns the act as trivializing a profound ritual, while others defend it as harmless homage within a film festival context. The case underscores the potent cultural footprint of regional cinema like 'Kantara' and the need for public figures to navigate these spaces with heightened awareness.
The police are now reviewing the complaint to determine the future course of action. This development ensures that the conversation around cultural appropriation, artistic freedom, and religious respect will continue to dominate headlines in the coming days.
