The recent controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh’s imitation of a sacred element from the film Kantara has sparked significant reactions within the Indian film community. Directed and written by Rishab Shetty, Kantara and its upcoming sequel, Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1, are beloved among South Indian audiences for their rich mythological narratives and emotional depth.
During the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, Ranveer Singh mimicked the Daiva character from Kantara, drawing criticism from fans and creators alike. Rishab Shetty, who was also present at the festival, addressed the incident at a recent event in Chennai. He emphasized the importance of authenticity and respect when portraying sacred elements like Daiva, noting that such representations should not be taken lightly.
In his remarks, Rishab refrained from directly naming Ranveer but stated that the Daiva element is both sensitive and sacred. He expressed discomfort at any attempt to perform or mock it, underscoring the emotional connection many hold toward it. His comments reflect the broader concerns regarding cultural sensitivity in entertainment.
Following the backlash, Ranveer Singh took to social media to issue a public apology on December 2, 2025. He clarified that his intention was to acknowledge Rishab’s remarkable performance in Kantara. In his Instagram Stories, Ranveer conveyed deep respect for all cultures and traditions, emphasizing that he never intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments.
Support for Ranveer came swiftly from his fans, who defended him against the criticisms leveled by Rishab. Some users on social media questioned the necessity of the backlash, arguing that intentions should be taken into account rather than perceived offenses. Comments like “If Daiva was angry about Ranveer Singh mimicking it, why did it make Dhurandhar a huge hit?” exemplify the mixed reactions surrounding the incident.
Others pointed out that Ranveer’s actions stemmed from ignorance rather than malice, while some suggested that Rishab’s comments were fueled by competitive rivalry, as both actors have films performing well at the box office. Dhurandhar reportedly earned around Rs. 600 crore in just 11 days, closely trailing the earnings of Kantara Chapter 1.
As the dialogue continues, audiences are left to consider the impact of cultural representations in cinema and the fine line between homage and offense. This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities filmmakers and actors hold when engaging with culturally significant material. What are your thoughts on Rishab Shetty’s reaction?