FIR Filed Against Actor Ranveer Singh for Mimicking ‘Daiva’ Act from Kantara
Bengaluru: An FIR has been registered against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh for allegedly hurting religious sentiments by mimicking the sacred Daiva ritual portrayed by actor-director Rishab Shetty in the Kannada film Kantara. The case was filed at the High Grounds Police Station in Bengaluru following a complaint by a local advocate.
According to the complaint, Ranveer Singh reenacted the Daiva performance during a public event, an act which was perceived as derogatory to the deeply revered Bhoota Kola tradition of coastal Karnataka. The ritual, popularly depicted in Kantara, is considered sacred by devotees, who worship Daiva as a divine spirit rather than a fictional or theatrical character.
The incident reportedly occurred during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, where Singh allegedly imitated the performance style and expressions associated with the Daiva ritual. The complainant claimed that the actor’s remarks and mimicry amounted to an insult to religious beliefs and cultural heritage, leading to outrage among sections of the community.
Police officials confirmed that the FIR has been filed under Sections 196, 299, and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertain to promoting enmity and deliberately hurting religious sentiments. The matter has been forwarded to the court of the 1st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, Bengaluru, with further proceedings expected.
Following the backlash, Ranveer Singh had earlier issued a public apology, stating that his intention was to appreciate Rishab Shetty’s powerful performance and that he had no intention of disrespecting any religious or cultural tradition. However, the controversy continues to spark debate over the portrayal and imitation of sacred rituals on public platforms.
The Daiva tradition, central to Kantara, holds immense spiritual and cultural significance in Karnataka’s coastal belt, and any perceived mockery is viewed with deep sensitivity by the local population.
By:- Abhilash C G
