Ranveer Singh Booked in Bengaluru for Mocking Kantara Daiva Tradition

| Published: Thursday, January 29, 2026, 14:38 [IST]

A Ranveer Singh Kantara FIR has officially been registered in Bengaluru following a court directive over allegations that the actor insulted sacred religious sentiments. The controversy centers on a stage performance at the IFFI 2025 closing ceremony, where Singh allegedly mocked the revered Daiva traditions of Coastal Karnataka. Despite a previous public apology, a Bengaluru court took cognisance of a private complaint filed by advocate Prashanth Methal, leading to charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The complaint specifically highlights Singh's verbal reference to the Chavundi Daiva as a "female ghost," an act described as blasphemous by devotees of the Bhoota Kola tradition.

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Court Takes Cognisance of the Complaint

The 1st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court in Bengaluru has taken cognisance of the private criminal complaint filed against Ranveer Singh and directed the police to register a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Following the order, the High Grounds police station registered an FIR and initiated a formal investigation. The matter is scheduled to be heard next on April 8.

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Incident Linked to IFFI 2025 Closing Ceremony

According to the complaint, the incident occurred during the closing ceremony of IFFI on November 28, 2025, held in Goa. Ranveer Singh was allegedly seen performing an imitation referencing Daiva worship traditions, inspired by the film Kantara: Chapter 1. Actor Rishab Shetty, who portrayed the role linked to these rituals in the film, was reportedly present during the event.

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Allegations of Disrespect Toward Daiva Worship

The petitioner claims that Singh’s act mocked expressions associated with Panjurli and Guliga Daiva and included remarks that allegedly referred to Chavundi Daiva as a “ghost.” The complaint argues that such portrayals trivialise deeply revered spiritual beliefs and rituals, particularly Bhoota Kola traditions practiced across Coastal Karnataka.

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Complainant Details Cultural Significance

The complaint was filed by Bengaluru-based advocate Prashanth Methal, who described Chavundi Daiva as a guardian spirit symbolising justice, protection, and divine feminine energy. Methal asserted that portraying the deity in a casual or dismissive manner amounts to an insult to Hindu religious beliefs and could disturb communal harmony among devotees.

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FIR Registered Under Multiple BNS Sections

Based on the court’s directive, police registered the case under Sections 196, 299, and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Section 175(3). These sections relate to allegations of deliberate insult to religious beliefs, promotion of disharmony, and acts intended to outrage religious sentiments. The FIR notes that the alleged act was intentional and carried out on a public platform.

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What Happens Next in the Case

The complaint and FIR will be reviewed by the court on April 8, when further instructions regarding the investigation are expected. While Ranveer Singh had reportedly issued an apology following online criticism earlier, the legal process will now determine whether the allegations warrant further action under the law.

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Final Takeaway

The case against Ranveer Singh has sparked wider discussion around cultural sensitivity, artistic expression, and respect for traditional belief systems. As the matter progresses through the courts, it highlights the growing scrutiny public figures face when engaging with culturally significant themes on prominent platforms.

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