HJS demanded Actor’s Apology and Assurance that He Would Refrain from Making Such Remarks or Performances in the Future

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Ranveer Singh issued a public apology after a complaint accused him of hurting religious sentiments for referring to a goddess shown in Kantara as a “ghost.” The actor clarified that the remark was unintentional and expressed respect for cultural traditions. His clarification has helped ease tensions as the issue continues to trend online.

The Incident

The incident took place at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025. Ranveer was on stage at the closing ceremony, where he praised Rishab Shetty, who sat in the audience. 

Videos from the event showed the actor 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.” 

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Singh went on to imitate the scene, leaving Rishab in splits. However, his remarks and actions did not sit well with a section of social media users, who called it insensitive and disrespectful. Many took offence to the act itself, and also Ranveer’s ignorance in calling the daivas - essentially forest gods - ghosts.

Another video showed that Rishab had warned Ranveer not to mimic him earlier in the show, which further angered fans. 

Complaints Against Ranveer Singh 

A group named Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) submitted a complaint with the police against Ranveer on Monday for the act, alleging that he hurt their religious sentiments. 

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According to a PTI report, the organisation stated that Ranveer had "insulted Goddess Chamundadevi by describing the deity in a derogatory manner.”

"Chamundi Daiva is considered a sacred family deity of the Tulu community, and depicting or describing the deity in a derogatory manner amounts to disrespect. Such acts may cause public resentment and disturb peace," the HJS said.

It also urged IFFI organisers to frame a code of conduct to ensure these episodes are not repeated.

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Apology from Ranveer Singh 

Ranveer took to Instagram and shared a note of apology on Stories. It read, “I intended to highlight Rishabh'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.”

The actor added, “I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition, and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”

Dhurandhar’ Ranveer Singh

Ranveer is set to be seen in Dhurandhar, a spy thriller that releases this Friday. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film stars Ranveer Singh as an Indian spy infiltrating the gangs of Pakistan’s Lyari Town. 

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The film also stars Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, and Sara Arjun.

Ranveer Singh’s apology highlights the increasing sensitivity around cultural and religious representations in public discourse. While the complaint remains under review, his clarification appears to have eased tensions. This underscores the importance of mindful communication in an era of instant digital amplification.