Ranveer Singh apologizes on Instagram after Kantara mimicry at IFFI

Actor Ranveer Singh has faced 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. Many viewers interpreted the act as disrespectful to South Indian culture and the sacred communal traditions depicted in the film.

In an Instagram Stories post, 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 added, "I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise."

However, many observers strongly disagreed with his explanation. In a widely circulated video from the ceremony, Ranveer praised Shetty, 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 attempted to mimic the scene, leaving Shetty laughing. Critics argue that the act was crude, embarrassing, and felt like an insult to the entire South Indian cultural context. In their view, this was not a benign actor‑to‑actor tribute but a disrespectful trivialization of sacred traditions and ritualistic worship that real communities deeply revere. They emphasise that Shetty’s portrayal in the film - including scenes involving deity‑possession and invocation of the goddess tradition, carries spiritual weight for many, and mimicking it in a casual stage act undermines that sanctity.

Kantara: Chapter 1 explores the origins of Deva 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, in a narrative involving tribal resistance against a royal family’s attempt to seize control. The film also features Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, and Jayaram in key roles, with supporting performances from Rakesh Poojari, Hariprashanth MG, Deepak Rai Panaje, Shaneel Gautham, and Naveen Bondel.