Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh is facing legal trouble in Bengaluru after a First Information Report (FIR) was filed against him for allegedly mocking a sacred ritual from the Kannada film Kantara, directed by Rishab Shetty.
The FIR was lodged at High Grounds Police Station by advocate Prashanth Methal, who said he came across a viral video of Ranveer’s stage performance at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) closing ceremony in Goa on November 28, 2025. Methal alleged that Ranveer’s act mimicked expressions linked to Panjurli and Guliga Daiva rituals and referred to the revered Chavundi Daiva as a “female ghost,” which he claimed was derogatory and disrespectful.
The rituals in question form part of Bhuta Kola, a centuries-old spiritual tradition respected across Tulu-speaking regions of coastal Karnataka. According to the complainant, Ranveer’s performance distorted these sacred practices, causing distress among devotees and followers.
The FIR has been registered under Sections 196, 299, and 302, and the matter is now with the 1st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court in Bengaluru. The next hearing is scheduled for April 8, 2026.
Ranveer Singh had earlier issued a public apology on social media, stating that his intention was to celebrate Rishab Shetty’s performance and that he respects all traditions and cultures. Despite the apology, the FIR reflects that some sections of the public found his act insensitive to religious sentiments.
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