Rishab Shetty breaks his silence on Ranveer Singh’s Daiva mimicry, urging people not to mock Kantara’s sacred ritual. He says the Daiva element is sensitive, sacred, and emotionally deeply connected to the community
Rishab Shetty on Kantara mimic
Rishab Shetty is riding high on the phenomenal success of Kantara: Chapter 1. While the film was rooted in its cultural representation, Shetty’s climax scene stole the show. Heaping praise on him, Ranveer Singh mimicked the Chaundi scene, after which he faced flak. Now, Shetty shared his perspective on the incident for the first time at a Behindwoods event in Chennai.
Rishab Shetty on Daiva mimicry
Rishab Shetty addressed the tendency of people to imitate cinematic portrayals of sacred traditions, stating, “That makes me uncomfortable. While much of the film is cinema and performance, the Daiva element is sensitive and sacred. Wherever I go, I request people not to perform it on stage or mock it. It is emotionally deeply connected to us.”
Shetty further explained the efforts made during the production of Kantara to ensure authenticity and respect for local practices. He also noted that it is important for audiences to understand the emotional depth and significance associated with these rituals. While he didn’t name anyone, this statement comes days after the Dhurandhar actor received backlash.
About Ranveer Singh’s controversy
The controversy began earlier this month at the International Film Festival of India in Goa. During an interaction with Rishab Shetty, Ranveer Singh mimicked Daiva movements while praising Kantara, despite Rishab refusing him to do so. Many people online felt the gesture crossed a line and called it disrespectful. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) filed an official complaint against the actor, which exacerbated the situation even more.
Responding to the backlash, Ranveer later wrote on Instagram: “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.” He further added, “I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition, and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”
Meanwhile, Rishab’s Kantara (2022) and Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025) rank among the highest-grossing Kannada films after KGF: Chapter 2.
On the work front, Ranveer is currently being praised for Dhurandhar. The film, also starring Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal, is receiving a rave response.
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