'Makes me UNCOMFORTABLE': Kantara's Rishab Shetty BREAKS SILENCE on Ranveer Singh's controversial mimicry

The recent controversy involving actor Ranveer Singh has reignited a larger conversation about artistic expression, cultural responsibility, and the boundaries of performance when faith and tradition are involved. Ranveer found himself at the centre of criticism after a segment from his appearance at the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa began circulating online. During the event, he mimicked a powerful ritual-inspired sequence associated with the film Kantara, a moment that many viewers felt crossed the line from admiration into insensitivity. The act, performed on a public stage, drew backlash from audiences who believed the ritual carried deep spiritual meaning and was not meant to be replicated casually or theatrically.

Amid the growing debate, actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty, the force behind Kantara, addressed the issue with restraint but unmistakable clarity. Speaking at a recent Behindwoods event in Chennai, Shetty shared his perspective without directly naming Ranveer, yet his comments clearly reflected the ongoing discussion. He explained that while cinema often allows room for exaggeration and performance, certain elements portrayed in Kantara stem from deeply held beliefs and traditions that demand a different level of respect. 'That makes me uncomfortable. While much of the film is cinema and performance, the Daiva element is sensitive and sacred. Wherever I go, I request people not to perform it on stage or mock it. It is emotionally deeply connected to us,' he said.

Shetty went on to elaborate on the intent behind the film’s depiction of regional rituals, particularly the Daiva tradition, which plays a central role in the narrative. According to him, these sequences were not designed as dramatic set pieces meant for imitation, but as culturally rooted representations crafted with responsibility and care. He stressed that the team behind Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 invested significant time in research and consultation to ensure authenticity, approaching the subject matter with reverence rather than spectacle. The goal, he explained, was to help viewers understand the emotional weight and spiritual significance of the rituals, not to reduce them to performative moments.

That makes me uncomfortable. While much of the film is cinema and performance, the Daiva element is sensitive and sacred. Wherever I go, I request people not to perform it on stage or mock it. It is emotionally deeply connected to us

- Rishab Shetty

The controversy escalated further because Ranveer’s imitation reportedly took place in front of Shetty himself and referenced the iconic Chaundi sequence from Kantara. This sequence draws from rituals associated with Goddess Chamundadevi, a form of worship that holds profound meaning for many communities. Following the backlash, Ranveer issued a public apology, clarifying that his intentions were never to offend or trivialise the ritual.

On December 2, the actor addressed the matter through his Instagram story, stating, '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.' He further added, 'I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.'

Ranveer’s apology has sparked broader reflection within the film industry and among audiences. It has highlighted the need for sensitivity when engaging with material rooted in faith, especially in a public and influential medium like cinema. As Shetty’s remarks suggest, not every powerful cinematic moment is meant to be reenacted, particularly when it carries centuries of belief, emotion, and cultural identity behind it.