Ranveer Singh Apologizes for Controversial Performance at IFFI

Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has issued a public apology following backlash over his imitation of Rishab Shetty’s performance from the film Kantara: Chapter 1. The controversy erupted during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of Goa (IFFI), where Singh mistakenly referred to a revered deity as a “female ghost.” His remarks sparked outrage on social media, with many feeling their religious sentiments had been disrespected.

Taking to Instagram, Singh expressed regret over the incident, clarifying that his intentions were never to offend. He stated, “My intention was to highlight Rishab’s performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene the way he did, for which he has my utmost admiration.” He continued, “I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I have hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”

Details of the Incident

The incident occurred on November 30, 2025, during IFFI’s closing ceremony. While recreating Rishab Shetty’s iconic climax scene, Singh incorrectly characterized the daiva Chavundi, a significant figure in the local culture, as a “female ghost.” He also engaged the audience by jokingly asking if they would like to see him in Kantara 3. This misstep quickly drew criticism online, igniting a broader conversation about the need for respect towards cultural and religious traditions.

Following the outcry, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) filed a formal complaint against Singh on December 1, 2025. In their statement, the organization demanded a public apology and called for Singh to assure that he would avoid making similar remarks in the future. They also encouraged their supporters to protest “in a peaceful and lawful manner.”

Future Projects

Despite the controversy surrounding his recent performance, Ranveer Singh is preparing for the release of his upcoming film, Dhurandhar. This highly anticipated movie features a star-studded cast, including Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and R. Madhavan. Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar is set to premiere on December 5, 2025.

As the situation develops, Singh’s apology may play a significant role in shaping public perception. The incident serves as a reminder of the sensitivities surrounding cultural representations and the responsibilities that come with public performances.