Ranveer Singh apologises for imitating Rishab Shetty’s Kantara performance, says intention was to show ‘admiration’ | Bollywood News

Days after Ranveer Singh imitated Rishab Shetty’s performance in Kantara during the 56th International Film Festival of India in Goa, the actor has now issued an apology. Taking to his Instagram stories, Ranveer wrote that he intended to just admire Rishab’s performance in the film. He mentioned that he has always respected “every culture, tradition, and belief in our country.”
Ranveer wrote, “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 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 Singh’s apology on social media.
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Complaint against Ranveer Singh in Goa
The apology comes a day after The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) submitted a complaint to the Panaji police against Ranveer, alleging he insulted Goddess Chamundadevi imitating Rishab Shetty’s Kantara performance on stage.
“Ranveer Singh should issue a public apology and assure he would refrain from making such remarks or performances in the future,” the HJS had said on Monday, as per PTI. “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 durb peace,” the outfit had added in their complaint. While seeking a thorough investigation, the outfit also urged IFFI organisers to frame a code of conduct to ensure no religious deity is depicted in an insulting manner at future events.

What happened between Ranveer and Rishab at IFFI?
In the closing ceremony of IFFI, Ranveer took to the stage and gave a shoutout to Kannada actor Rishab Shetty, best known for his lead performance and direction of the blockbuster Kantara franchise. “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,” Ranveer said.
He then went on to imitate the character on stage crossing his eyes and sticking his tongue out. Pointing at Rishab, he added, “Anybody here want to see me in Kantara 3? Tell this guy.” The move invited a lot of flak on social media, particularly from the Tulu community.Story continues below this ad
Ranveer will be next seen in Aditya Dhar’s action thriller Dhurandhar, slated to release in cinemas this Friday.