Ranveer Singh apologises over claims he insulted Goddess Chamundadevi in 'Kantara Chapter 1': 'If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise'

Actor Ranveer Singh has issued a public apology amid the controversy he accidentally kicked up for his remarks during the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 in Goa on Friday. The actor faced online backlash following his on-stage comments while referencing Rishabh Shetty's climax scene in 'Kantara'.

Ranveer's public apology

Amid calls from Hindu groups for a public apology, the actor on Tuesday, took to his social media handle to say, "My intention was to highlight Rishabh'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."


Making it clear that it was never his intention to disrespect any culture or beliefs, he added, "I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise."

The controversy

During the ceremony, Singh praised Rishabh's performance in the film, which released on October 2, 2025. However, the mood shifted when Singh referred to the film’s iconic possession sequence and mistakenly called 'a goddess a female ghost' and briefly imitated the moment on stage. Given the cultural and religious significance of the scene's depiction in Kantara, many netizen deemed his comment and act "disrespectful".

Hindu outfit files complaint

On Monday, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) filed a complaint with Panaji Police, alleging that Singh insulted Goddess Chamundadevi. The outfit claimed that the actor imitated the divine form of the deity portrayed in the film and referred to Chamundi Daiva, revered by the Kotitulu community, as a “female ghost.”

HJS representatives Pramod Tuyekar and Dilip Shetye submitted a memorandum to sub-inspector Sahin Shetye, seeking the registration of an offence under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for hurting religious sentiments.

“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 stated in its complaint.

The organisation also demanded a public apology, urging Singh to “assure he would refrain from making such remarks or performances in the future."

Ranveer's upcoming film release

The controversy comes just days ahead of Ranveer's film release. The actor is awaiting the theatrical release of his action film 'Dhurandhar', this Friday, December 5. The film directed by Aditya Dhar, also stars Arjun Rampal, Kashaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt and Sara Arjun.

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