Ranveer Singh Booked in Bengaluru For Allegedly Hurting Religious Sentiments Over Kantara Scene Imitation
Karnataka: Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has found himself in legal trouble following an FIR registered against him in Bengaluru for allegedly hurting religious sentiments by mimicking a sacred scene from the film Kantara.
The complaint was lodged by Bengaluru-based advocate Prashanth Methal at the High Grounds Police Station on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Police booked the case under Sections 196, 299, and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deal with promoting enmity between groups, outraging religious feelings, and related offenses.
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The controversy stems from an incident during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28, 2025. While praising Kantara star Rishab Shetty’s performance on stage, Ranveer Singh reportedly reenacted the iconic Daiva or Bhoota Kola possession sequence. This tradition, central to coastal Karnataka’s folk worship, involves devotees channeling divine spirits like Panjurli, Guliga, and Chavundi Daiva in ritualistic performances considered deeply sacred by communities in the region.
The complainant alleged that Ranveer imitated the divine expressions and movements associated with Panjurli and Guliga Daiva in a crude, comical, and derogatory manner. He further claimed the actor referred to Chavundi Daiva as a female ghost, describing the act as blasphemous, malicious, and intended to insult Hindu religious beliefs, outrage devotees, and promote disharmony.
Kantara, directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, drew widespread acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Bhoota Kola rituals, blending folklore, spirituality, and environmental themes. The film’s success elevated these cultural practices nationally, making any perceived mockery particularly sensitive.
Following the initial backlash after the IFFI event, Ranveer Singh issued an apology, clarifying his intent was admiration for Shetty’s acting and not to disrespect the tradition. Despite this, the viral clip resurfaced criticism, leading to the formal complaint and FIR.
The case has sparked debates on cultural sensitivity, artistic expression, and the line between homage and offense in public performances. As investigations proceed, it highlights ongoing tensions around celebrity actions intersecting with regional religious sentiments.