Bollywood star Ranveer Singh has found himself at the center of a social media storm after his recent attempt to recreate an iconic scene from the blockbuster Kannada film Kantara. The incident occurred during a public appearance where the actor imitated Rishab Shetty's powerful 'Bhoota Kola' performance, but managed to offend fans and cultural purists with his interpretation.
The Controversial Imitation
During the event that took place in late November 2024, Ranveer Singh enthusiastically reenacted one of the most memorable sequences from Kantara. However, what particularly upset viewers was his reference to the divine entity Daiva as a 'female ghost' during his performance. This terminology sparked immediate backlash from those familiar with the cultural significance of the traditions depicted in the film.
The original Kantara scene features Rishab Shetty performing the ancient ritual of Bhoota Kola, a sacred tradition native to the Tulu Nadu region of Karnataka. In the film, this ritual forms the emotional and cultural core of the narrative, showcasing the deep connection between the land, its people, and their spiritual beliefs.
Social Media Backlash
Social media platforms quickly filled with criticism from disappointed fans and cultural commentators. Many expressed that Ranveer's portrayal demonstrated a lack of understanding and respect for the cultural nuances that made Kantara so special to audiences across India.
One Twitter user wrote, "It's disappointing to see someone of Ranveer's stature reduce such a sacred tradition to mere entertainment. The Daiva is not a 'ghost' - it's a divine entity that holds deep cultural significance." Another comment highlighted, "This is exactly why cultural appropriation discussions are important. Please understand the context before performing."
Several fans pointed out that the actor should have done proper research about the cultural elements he was attempting to portray, especially given Kantara's significance in bringing regional traditions to national attention.
Understanding the Cultural Context
The controversy highlights the importance of understanding cultural context when engaging with regional traditions. In the Tuluva tradition depicted in Kantara, Daivas are not considered ghosts but rather divine spirits or deities that protect villages and communities.
Bhoota Kola itself is a ritualistic dance form where performers embody these divine entities, serving as mediums between the human and spiritual worlds. The practice has deep roots in the coastal Karnataka region and is considered a sacred tradition by local communities.
Kantara's massive success had already sparked important conversations about cultural representation and the need for authentic portrayals of regional traditions in mainstream Indian cinema. This recent incident with Ranveer Singh has reignited those discussions, with many emphasizing the responsibility that public figures have when engaging with culturally significant content.
Broader Implications
This incident serves as a reminder of the fine line between appreciation and appropriation in the entertainment industry. As Indian cinema becomes more interconnected, with regional films gaining national recognition, the need for cultural sensitivity and proper understanding becomes increasingly important.
The backlash against Ranveer Singh's performance demonstrates that audiences are becoming more aware and protective of their cultural heritage. Public figures, especially those with massive followings like Ranveer, are expected to approach such sensitive topics with the respect and research they deserve.
As of now, neither Ranveer Singh nor his team has issued an official statement addressing the controversy. However, the incident continues to generate discussion online about cultural representation, celebrity responsibility, and the importance of understanding regional traditions before attempting to recreate them for entertainment purposes.
