Actor Ranveer Singh has issued a public apology after facing backlash for mimicking Rishab Shetty&rsquo;s Daiva performance from the Kantara films at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 in Goa. The act, which included an exaggerated reenactment and an incorrect reference to daivas as &ldquo;ghosts,&rdquo; triggered criticism from several social media users and cultural groups.
On Tuesday, Ranveer shared a note on Instagram expressing regret for unintentionally hurting sentiments. He explained that he intended to appreciate Rishab Shetty&rsquo;s powerful performance and held deep admiration for the effort behind the iconic Daiva sequence. Ranveer added that he respects all cultures and traditions and apologised to anyone who felt offended.
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During the IFFI 2025 ceremony, Ranveer praised Kantara Chapter 1 and imitated a scene where a daiva enters Rishab&rsquo;s character. Although Rishab Shetty was seen smiling in the audience, many online users found the act insensitive, arguing that daivas are sacred forest deities and should not be referred to as ghosts. A video also surfaced showing Rishab cautioning Ranveer earlier in the event not to mimic him, further agitating fans. A Hindu group later filed a complaint claiming the actor had hurt religious sentiments.
Ranveer will next appear in Dhurandhar, an action-packed spy thriller releasing this Friday. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film follows an Indian agent infiltrating criminal networks in Pakistan&rsquo;s Lyari Town. The cast includes Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna and Sara Arjun.

Ranveer issues apology after criticism for mimicking Rishab Shetty at IFFI 2025

Ranveer Singh Apologises for Kantara Mimicry Row

Ranveer issues apology after criticism for mimicking Rishab Shetty at IFFI 2025

December 2, 2025 | 13:01 IST