A fresh controversy has erupted around the iconic film 'Kantara', this time involving its creator Rishab Shetty and Bollywood star Ranveer Singh. The incident, which took place at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa, has ignited a firestorm on social media over cultural sensitivity.
The Backstage Warning That Went Unheeded
According to reports, a crucial backstage conversation occurred before Ranveer Singh took the stage. Rishab Shetty, the director and star of 'Kantara', personally cautioned Ranveer Singh against imitating the film's revered 'Daiva Chavundi' character. This divine, folkloric entity is central to the film's narrative and holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in the Bhoota Kola tradition of Karnataka. Despite this direct request from the creator himself, Ranveer proceeded with his planned act during the event.
The On-Stage Act and Immediate Backlash
During his performance, Ranveer Singh's portrayal of the 'Daiva' crossed a line for many viewers. The actor reportedly referred to the sacred 'Daiva' as a 'female ghost', a description considered highly reductive and disrespectful. Clips and descriptions of the act quickly spread online, leading to an intense and sharp backlash. Audiences, particularly from Karnataka and fans of the film, accused the Bollywood star of cultural appropriation and insensitivity. They argued that he trivialized a profound element of regional folklore for entertainment, ignoring its religious and anthropological context.
A Controversy With Deepened Layers
The revelation that Rishab Shetty had explicitly asked him to avoid the mimicry adds a significant new dimension to the unfolding drama. This detail, emerging after the initial online fury, suggests the act was performed against the clear wishes of the very person who brought the character to life. It transforms the incident from a potential misunderstanding into a deliberate choice, fueling further criticism. The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between mainstream Bollywood and regional cinema, especially regarding the respectful portrayal of deeply rooted cultural symbols. The event took place on December 1, 2025, and the fallout continues to dominate online discussions, raising questions about artistic boundaries and cultural respect in the Indian film industry.
