Huge controversy erupted when Ranveer Singh mimicked the Rishab Shetty's Kantara act at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025. What hurt all is he referred to daivas as ghosts.
Ranveer went ahead with his mimicry even as Rishab Shetty was signalling 'No' asking him not to do it. The video went viral on social media. Ranveer Singh mimicked saying "I watched Kantara Chapter 1 in theatres, and Rishab, it was an outstanding performance, especially when the female ghost (Chamundi Daiva) enters your body - that shot was amazing,"
Ranveer Singh decided to apologise as few Kannnada outfits and Hindu organisations went ahead to complain against him in the police station for hurting the sentiments. He said "My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it takes to perform that particular scene in the way he did, for which he has my utmost admiration,"
He added "I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise."
Rishab earlier said "Uska jo seriousness hai, jo Daiva nartak hai, unko humne bahot carefully show kiya hai. Usme kuch bhi idhar-udhar nahi hona chahiye [We have treated it with deep seriousness. The Daiva nartak has been depicted with great care; nothing should be distorted],"