Ranveer Singh Kantara Controversy: FIR Filed in Bengaluru Over Alleged Insult to Daiva Tradition

An FIR has been registered against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh in Bengaluru over allegations of hurting Hindu religious sentiments and disrespecting the Chavundi Daiva tradition of coastal Karnataka. The case has been lodged at the High Grounds Police Station following a court directive.

The complaint was filed by Bengaluru-based advocate Prashanth Methal, who accused the actor of making derogatory remarks and gestures during a public appearance at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28, 2025.

What the FIR Alleges

According to the FIR, Ranveer Singh allegedly mocked elements of the Daiva worship tradition, particularly expressions associated with Panjurli and Guliga Daiva, while speaking on stage about Rishab Shetty’s performance in Kantara: Chapter 1. Rishab Shetty was reportedly present in the audience at the time.

The complaint further states that after stepping down from the stage, Singh hugged Shetty and repeated the imitation as a gesture of appreciation. While Shetty laughed initially, he was said to have gestured for Singh to stop.

Advocate Methal claims the imitation was “crude, comical, and derogatory” and alleges that Singh referred to Chavundi Daiva as a “female ghost,” a description the complainant says grossly misrepresents a revered guardian deity symbolising divine feminine energy in coastal Karnataka.

Legal Sections Invoked

The FIR has been registered under Sections 196, 299, and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), dealing with acts that allegedly insult religious beliefs and cause mental agony to followers of a faith.

The case has now been referred to the 1st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court, Bengaluru, and is scheduled for hearing on April 8.

How the Case Progressed

The complainant stated that he came across the video on December 2, 2025, while browsing Instagram. The clip was reportedly shared by an account named Brief Chaat.

An earlier complaint had been filed on December 27, 2025, following which the court, on January 23, 2026, directed the High Grounds Police Station to register an FIR under Section 175(3) of the BNS. The FIR was formally registered following this order.

Ranveer Singh’s Apology

Following intense backlash and calls to boycott his then-upcoming film Dhurandhar, Ranveer Singh issued a public apology on Instagram.

“My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it takes to perform that scene the way 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,” the actor wrote.

What Happens Next

The legal proceedings will now determine whether the allegations constitute a deliberate and malicious act or fall under artistic expression gone wrong. The case adds to the growing conversation around cultural sensitivity, religious traditions, and the responsibilities of public figures at high-profile platforms.