Row over Kantara mimicry amid Dhurandhar promotions; Ranveer Singh apologises for 'hurting sentiments'

Kannada film Kantara Chapter One was a pan Indian hit that helped Rishabh Shetty garner fans from all over the country. Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh had sparked criticism after he reenacted Rishabh Shetty's scenes from Kantara Chapter One at the Goa Film Festival. Following the row, Ranveer has come out with an apology through his Instagram page.

'My intention was 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. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise.” Ranveer wrote.

Ranveer jokingly performed a scene on stage where the goddess Chamundi takes control of the body of the character Berme, played by Rishabh Shetty in the film. He had referred to the revered Daiva Chamundi as a "female ghost". Rishab Shetty was laughing. However, reports suggest that Shetty had politely cautioned Singh not to imitate the Daiva, as it is a sacred deity and not meant to be portrayed casually.

The "mimicking clip" went viral, leading to widespread criticism online from many who found the act culturally insensitive and disrespectful to the sacred Daiva traditions of the Tulu community in coastal Karnataka. A cultural group, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, even filed a formal police complaint against Singh for allegedly hurting religious sentiments.

Kantara fans continue to attack Ranveer even after he apologised. Some people are criticising Ranveer as a third-rate actor and constantly insulting Hindu gods. There are also those who are saying that they will boycott Ranveer's next film. Ranveer Singh is currently busy promoting his film Dhurandhar. Rishabh Shetty has not yet responded to the controversies.