Ranveer Singh Issues Apology After Kantara ‘Daiva’ Act Uproar, Claims No Intent To Hurt: My Intention Was…

Ranveer Singh Controversy: Bollywood star Ranveer Singh is gearing up for the release of his much-awaited film Dhurandhar on December 5, but the final leg of promotions has been jolted by a controversy that erupted after his recent appearance at the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

RANVEER SINGH-RISHAB SHETTY KANTARA 'DAIVA' CONTROVERSY EXPLAINED

What began as a light-hearted stage moment has now spiralled into public criticism, a police complaint and demands for accountability. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) has lodged a formal complaint against actor Ranveer Singh, alleging that he mocked sacred Daiva movements while imitating a scene from Rishab Shetty's Kantara Chapter 1.

The organisation accused Singh of referring to the revered Kotitulu deity Chamundi Daiva as a "female ghost," calling the remarks disrespectful and hurtful to religious sentiments. HJS urged authorities to investigate the matter, stating that the portrayal compromised cultural sanctity and demanded immediate corrective action.

Eyewitnesses at IFFI said Ranveer's mimicry was intended as an appreciation of Rishab Shetty's intense performance in the film, but clips circulating online triggered a different reaction, especially among communities who hold the Bhoota Kola tradition in high reverence. Social media discussions intensified through the week, and calls for an apology mounted.

RANVEER SINGH FINALLY REACTS; ISSUES AN APOLOGY

Today (December 2), Ranveer issued a public apology via Instagram Stories, acknowledging the criticism and clarifying his stance. His statement read: "My intention was to highlight Rishabh's incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene in the way that he did, for which he has my utmost admiration. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise."

Take a look at his Insta story:

WILL THE KANTARA CONTROVERSY AFFECT RANVEER SINGH'S DHURANDHAR?

The apology marks an attempt to quell the growing tension, though HJS has said it will wait to see whether authorities initiate an inquiry based on their complaint. No confirmation of a formal investigation has been provided by officials yet.

Dhurandhar, which stars Ranveer Singh alongside an ensemble cast, has already been riding high on buzz after its trailer release. But with the film now days away from hitting theatres, the controversy threatens to overshadow the promotional narrative.