Actor Ranveer Singh has been booked by the Bengaluru police for allegedly hurting religious sentiments and mocking the sacred Chavundi Daiva tradition of coastal Karnataka. The FIR follows a court directive issued after a private complaint was filed by advocate Prashanth Methal.
The Controversy at IFFI Goa
The incident occurred during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28, 2025. While sharing the stage with Kantara star Rishab Shetty, Ranveer Singh:
- Mimicked the intense "possession" expressions of the Panjurli and Guliga Daiva.
- Referred to the revered Chavundi Daiva as a "female ghost."
- Performed the act despite a reported request from Rishab Shetty to refrain from portraying the sacred element on stage.
Legal Charges and FIR Details
The High Grounds Police Station registered the case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The actor faces charges under the following sections:
- Section 196: Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion.
- Section 299: Deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
- Section 302: Uttering words with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings.
The complainant, a devotee of the Chavundi Daiva, argued that describing a guardian deity as a "ghost" is blasphemous and has caused significant mental distress to the community.
Ranveer Singh’s Apology
Following the initial backlash in December, Ranveer Singh issued a statement via Instagram to clarify his stance:
"My intention was to highlight Rishab's incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene... I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition, and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise."
The Global Success of Kantara: Chapter 1
The controversy comes on the heels of the massive success of Kantara: Chapter 1, which was released on October 2, 2025. The film has crossed ₹700 crore at the global box office, further cementing the cultural significance of the Bhoota Kola tradition it depicts.
The matter has now been referred to the 1st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court in Bengaluru, with a hearing scheduled for April 8, 2026.
