Ranveer Singh has officially apologised after facing massive backlash for mimicking the sacred Chamundi Daiva act from the movie Kantara during the IFFI 2025 closing ceremony. His performance, along with a comment comparing the Daiva to a “female ghost,” triggered outrage among fans, cultural groups, and followers of Tulunadu traditions. In response to the growing controversy, Ranveer shared a public apology expressing regret and clarifying that his intention was never to disrespect any culture or belief.
Why Ranveer Singh’s Mimicry Sparked a Cultural Backlash
The controversy erupted when a video of Ranveer Singh imitating the intense Daiva performance from Kantara went viral. Though performed humorously, his portrayal was considered insensitive because the Chamundi Daiva ritual holds enormous spiritual value in Tulunadu culture. Unlike a fictional character or movie scene, the Daiva tradition is a divine ritual followed by generations. Many viewers felt that Ranveer’s exaggerated expressions and tone mocked a holy practice, leading to widespread criticism.
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👉 AmazonThe situation intensified when Ranveer, while narrating the scene, described the Daiva as a “female ghost.” This remark offended religious groups who insisted that the Daiva is a revered deity, not a supernatural character. Various organisations and cultural communities demanded a public apology from the actor, stating that such sacred traditions must be represented with utmost respect.
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Ranveer Singh’s Public Apology: What He Said
Responding to the backlash, Ranveer Singh issued an official apology through his social media channels. In his statement, he clarified that his intention was only to praise Rishab Shetty’s remarkable performance in Kantara. He wrote that he has always deeply respected India’s diverse traditions, cultures, and spiritual practices. He added that if his actions hurt the sentiments of any community, he sincerely apologises.
Ranveer also mentioned that his mimicry was meant as admiration, not mockery. However, he acknowledged that the cultural significance of the Daiva tradition deserves sensitivity and understanding. His apology gained mixed reactions—some appreciated his immediate response, while others felt that Bollywood celebrities must educate themselves better before portraying sacred rituals in public spaces.
Understanding the Chamundi Daiva Tradition in Tulunadu Culture
To understand why the mimicry offended so many, it is important to recognise the deep cultural roots of the Chamundi Daiva ritual. In Tulunadu (coastal Karnataka), Daivaradhane or Bhoota Kola is not a performance—it is a sacred ceremony where the performer is believed to embody the divine spirit. These rituals have been practised for hundreds of years and hold immense religious and emotional significance for local communities.
Performers undergo fasting, spiritual preparation, and ritual purity before taking part in the ceremony. Their trance-like state represents the presence of the divine. This spiritual essence is what the film Kantara, led by actor and director Rishab Shetty, aimed to portray authentically. By casually imitating the ritual and using humour, critics argue that Ranveer Singh undermined the sanctity of this cultural tradition.
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👉 AmazonReactions from Fans, Cultural Groups, and the Film Industry
The backlash was immediate and widespread. Supporters of Tulunadu heritage and fans of Kantara expressed disappointment, saying that the actor failed to respect a sacred tradition. Cultural organisations argued that Bollywood often misunderstands or trivialises regional rituals, and this incident highlighted a larger issue of cultural sensitivity in mainstream entertainment.
On social media, reactions were mixed. While many criticised Ranveer for his “insensitive” mimicry, others defended him, stating that the performance was taken out of context. Some fans appreciated his quick and humble apology, calling it a responsible step in controlling the situation. Meanwhile, industry insiders commented that public figures must be cautious when referencing religious or cultural elements, especially in live events.
Impact of the Apology and What Comes Next
Ranveer Singh’s apology appears to have softened the reactions from several groups, though the conversation about cultural respect continues. This incident serves as a reminder that India’s traditions vary widely across regions, and public figures must act with awareness and responsibility when discussing or imitating them.
As discussions continue, many hope this controversy will encourage Bollywood and mainstream media to approach regional and spiritual traditions with greater sensitivity. For now, Ranveer Singh’s apology marks a crucial step in addressing the concerns of affected communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why did Ranveer Singh apologise?
He apologised because his mimicry of the sacred Chamundi Daiva act from Kantara offended many who consider the ritual deeply spiritual. His comment calling the Daiva a "female ghost" also triggered cultural backlash.
Q2: What is Chamundi Daiva and why is it important?
Chamundi Daiva is part of the Tulunadu Daivaradhane tradition, where performers embody divine spirits during sacred rituals. It is centuries-old and holds immense cultural, spiritual, and emotional significance.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational and news-reporting purposes. All cultural references are based on publicly available information. The article does not intend to offend any belief or community.
Source
For more details, visit: NDTV Report
Author: Team RA News