‘Kantara’ row: FIR filed against Ranveer Singh for ‘insulting and mocking’ sacred ‘Daiva’ tradition

In a fresh row of legal troubles for Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, an FIR has filed  against him in Bengaluru in connection with his mimicry of actor Rishab Shetty’s character from the film ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’.

As per the FIR registered on Wednesday, January 28, Ranveer Singh “allegedly performed acts that insulted and mocked the sacred Daiva tradition. Referring to the deity as a ghost is described as blasphemous and a serious insult to Hindu religious beliefs and practices.”

The FIR has been registered under sections 196, 299, and 302 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The incident took place at the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa last year, where Ranveer Singh was seen praising Rishab Shetty for his performance in ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ and imitating his character. “I saw that in the theatres, Rishab, it was an outstanding performance, especially when the female ghost gets inside your body, that one shot...” the actor said at the film festival. As videos went viral from the event, many social media users found the act disrespectful and insensitive, prompting an apology from the ‘Dhurandhar’ actor. Taking to his Instagram stories, 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 apologize.” (ANI)

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