Ranveer Singh imitates scene from Kantara, draws criticism

‘Kantara Chapter 1,’ written, directed and acted by Rishab Shetty, was a massive hit across the country. Shetty's stellar performance in the film received widespread applause from the audience as well as critics. Now, a video of Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh imitating a key scene from the film has gone viral, triggering criticism on social media. The incident occurred during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

At the event, Ranveer recreated the scene in which the Chamundi Daiva possesses Shetty’s character. While doing so, he referred to the sacred figure as a “female ghost,” a remark that has drawn sharp backlash. Many have pointed out that the Daiva, rooted in the revered Theyyam tradition of South India, should not be described in such a manner, calling the comment disrespectful to the ritual art form.

“I watched Kantara in the theatre. Rishab, your performance was outstanding, especially the scene where that ‘female ghost’ enters your body. It was amazing,” Ranveer said before removing his glasses and imitating the sequence.

In the viral video, Ranveer is also seen stepping off the stage and trying to repeat the act when he meets Rishab Shetty, and Rishab politely tells him not to do it.

Ranveer's reaction to the Kantara scene really felt unnecessary and disrespectful pic.twitter.com/yQeffCofZk

— Nandan (@nandan_333) November 29, 2025