Ahead of Dhurandhar release, Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has landed in troubled waters after facing a police complaint for his controversial imitation of Daiva from Kantara: Chapter 1 at the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Goa.
The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) on Monday submitted a complaint to police alleging the actor hurt religious sentiments and insulted Goddess Chamundadevi during the film festival, says PTI.
Ranveer, meanwhile, issued an apology for hurting sentiments, adding that he intended to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film.
“My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene in the way that he did, for which he has my utmost admiration. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition, and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise,” the actor wrote.
What the complaint is about
HJS representatives Pramod Tuyekar and Dilip Shetye submitted a memorandum to Panaji police station sub-inspector Sahin Shetye and sought the registration of an offence under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly hurting Hindu religious sentiments with the portrayal, as per the news agency.
The complaint further says Ranveer Singh “insulted Goddess Chamundadevi by describing the deity in a derogatory manner”. During his performance, Singh reportedly referred to the goddess as a ‘female ghost’.
“Chamundi Daiva is considered a sacred family deity of the Tulu community, and depicting or describing the deity in a derogatory manner amounts to disrespect. Such acts may cause public resentment and disturb peace,” the HJS said.
The outfit has demanded Ranveer Singh’s apology on the matter and assurance that he would refrain from making such remarks or performances in the future.. It also urged IFFI organisers to frame a code of conduct to ensure these episodes are not repeated.
Here’s what happened
At the root of the controversy is Ranveer Singh’s mimicry of the revered deity and objectionable expressions while making references to it.
Kantara: Chapter 1 has emerged as the biggest blockbuster of the year, and at IFFI Goa, Ranveer praised the film and asked Rishab Shetty if he could star in Kantara 3. The trouble started when the actor couldn’t resist the temptation to re-create the film’s magic by imitating the character of Chamundi Daiva.
Referring to the character as a “female ghost”, Singh’s exaggerated expressions of sticking out tongue and widening his eyes, didn’t work out in his favour. After the clip was posted online, it quickly went viral, with netizens lashing out at the actor, accusing him of hurting religious sentiments.
Portrayal angers netizens
“Ranveer Singh literally mocking Daiva Chavundi possession in Kantara. How low these movie stars can go for fame, money with zero respect for sacred Tulunad Daivaradhane beliefs🥺 Shame,” a user wrote.
“What happens when we miss our research? Ranveer Singh calls Devi as Ghost, sparks outrage,” says another one.
“Ranveer’s reaction to the Kantara scene really felt unnecessary and disrespectful,” chimed another one.