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Ranveer Singh Apologizes Amid Backlash for 'Kantara' Mimicry at IFFI

Ranveer Singh has publicly apologized after facing criticism for mimicking a scene from Rishab Shetty's film 'Kantara' at a film festival. He explained on social media that his intention was purely to applaud Shetty's powerful performance. The viral video from the IFFI closing ceremony showed Shetty laughing, but many online found the imitation insensitive. Singh emphasized his deep respect for all cultures and traditions in his apology statement.

Key Points: Ranveer Singh Apologizes for Rishab Shetty Kantara Mimicry at IFFI

  • Ranveer Singh clarifies his viral mimicry was meant to highlight Rishab Shetty's acting prowess
  • The apology was issued via Instagram Stories after social media deemed the act disrespectful
  • The incident occurred at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 in Goa
  • 'Kantara: Chapter 1' explores Daiva worship origins in Tulunadu's tribal communities
2 min read

My intention was to highlight Rishab's incredible performance: Ranveer Singh apologises after criticism over 'Kantara' row

Ranveer Singh issues apology after mimicking Rishab Shetty's 'Kantara' scene at IFFI 2025, clarifying his intent was to praise the performance.

"If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise. - Ranveer Singh"

Mumbai, December 2

Actor Ranveer Singh on Tuesday issued an apology after receiving criticism for reportedly mimicking actor Rishab Shetty from the film 'Kantara: Chapter 1' at the closing ceremony of the 2025 International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

Addressing the issue on Instagram Stories, Ranveer wrote, "My intention was to highlight Rishab'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."

He further added, "I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise."

In the viral video from the ceremony, Ranveer was seen praising the actor, saying, "I saw that in the theatres, Rishab, it was an outstanding performance, especially when the female ghost gets inside your body, that one shot..." He then imitated the scene, leaving Shetty laughing, but many social media users found the act disrespectful and insensitive.

'Kantara: Chapter 1' revolves around the origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu, tracing its roots back to the fourth-century Kadamba dynasty. Shetty plays Berme, the protector of the Kantara forest and its tribal communities. The film also stars Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, and Jayaram in key roles.

The storyline follows the struggle between a royal family attempting to seize control from the Daivas and the local tribals who resist their rule.

The supporting cast includes Rakesh Poojari, Hariprashanth MG, Deepak Rai Panaje, Shaneel Gautham, and Naveen Bondel.

Talking about his upcoming projects, Ranveer Singh will next be seen in Dhurandhar, a spy-action thriller written, directed, and co-produced by Aditya Dhar. Produced under Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal, with Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi in supporting roles.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Kantara is not just a film, it's deeply connected to the culture and beliefs of Tulu Nadu. Mimicking a sacred Daiva possession scene for laughs, even if unintended, can feel disrespectful. Glad Ranveer apologized. We must be mindful when discussing regional traditions we may not fully understand. 🙏
S
Sarah B
As someone who loved Kantara, I see both sides. The scene he mimicked is powerful and spiritual. But at a film festival, among peers, it seemed like actor appreciation. The instant apology is the mature response. Let's move on.
V
Vikram M
This is the problem with Bollywood sometimes. They take stories from the heartland of India but don't always grasp the cultural gravity. Ranveer's heart was in the right place praising the performance, but the execution was poor. A good learning moment for all.
R
Rohit P
Honestly, who hasn't tried to imitate that iconic Kantara scene at home? 😅 It was a film festival, not a religious ceremony. The "outrage" feels manufactured. Focus on the great work both actors are doing instead of creating controversies.
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Nisha Z
Respectful criticism: While the apology is good, celebrities need to be more aware. In a diverse country like India, what seems like fun to one community can be sacred to another. Do your homework, especially at a national platform like IFFI. That said, no need to cancel anyone over this.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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