A new round of online debate has taken over social media after a video of Ranveer Singh at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa went viral.
What began as a warm, enthusiastic interaction between Ranveer and Kannada star Rishab Shetty soon turned into a controversy, with many viewers calling out the Bollywood actor for mimicking sacred Daiva movements on stage.
The criticism quickly snowballed, but as more footage emerged, it became clear that Rishab had actually tried to stop him — a detail that changed the tone of the conversation.
The longer videos making the rounds online show the full sequence. Ranveer had stepped off the stage to greet dignitaries seated in the front row, including Rajinikanth and Rishab Shetty.
He saw Rishab, and the two gave each other a big hug. It was in that moment of excitement that Ranveer, known for his expressive personality, began imitating Rishab’s intense expressions from the Kantara films.
However, Rishab's response was prompt and kind. He raised a finger, signalling Ranveer to stop, a subtle but clear reminder that Daiva portrayals are sacred and not meant to be reenacted casually. Ranveer appeared to understand right away; in fact, he acknowledged that Rishab had warned him by pointing out the gesture to a nearby person.
Another clip from a different angle makes the warning even more evident, showing Rishab shaking his head and repeating the “no” gesture.
Things escalated further after Ranveer later referenced the Chavundi Daiva on stage, saying, “I saw that in the theatres, Rishab, it was an outstanding performance. Especially when the female ghost gets inside your body…” He continued speaking to the audience, adding, “Did you see Kantara, sir? Did you see that one shot that he gave?” before mimicking the movement and joking, “Anybody here want to see me in Kantara 3? Tell this guy. Tell him.”
This didn’t sit well with many viewers, who pointed out that sacred rituals shouldn’t be treated lightly — especially not at a formal event and certainly not while wearing shoes.
Also read: Rishab Shetty starrer Kantara: Chapter 1 set to stream in Hindi on OTT, streaming details inside
A source later told Bangalore Times, “Rishab stayed calm and chose not to escalate it at such a high-profile event.”
The Kantara team has faced this issue before. When Kantara Chapter 1 released, some fans dressed up as Daivas at screenings, prompting Hombale Films to remind audiences that Dhaivaradhane is a deeply spiritual Tulu tradition, not a form of cosplay.
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