Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has been granted interim relief by the Karnataka High Court in a case related to the Kantara mimicry row. The actor had moved a petition to obtain relief on the 23rd of February. The matter is related to some statements he made during a speech at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. While granting interim relief, the Court also condemned the actor for his statements about a deity.
What Is Ranveer Singh’s Kantara Controversy?
The controversy began when Ranveer Singh praised actor Rishab Shetty for his performance in Kantara: Chapter 1 at the IFFI Goa event. Ranveer Singh commented a goddess in the film being a ‘female ghost’ and even imitated a scene. This statement triggered anger on social media platforms, with some people claiming that it offended religious sentiments.
What Did The Court Say?
Justice M Nagaprasanna stated that persons speaking in public must be responsible. The Court held that no one is above the law, even if they are superstars. The judge asked if Singh had adequate knowledge before making such statements. The Court held that no one can take the hurting of religious sentiments lightly. The Court also held that apologies cannot undo spoken words.
Judge Criticises Ranveer Singh: “Superstar Is Not above Law”
Justice Nagaprasanna said, “You may be Ranveer Singh or anybody. You can't be loose-tongued at all! We will see if there is a mens rea (guilty intent). But as an actor, you influence so many people. You have to be responsible. If you are speaking about a deity (you have to do your research), you can't call it a ghost. You have no right to hurt anybody's religious sentiments. You have apologised, but will your apology take back all the words? When actors go on stage and try to do all this, you should exercise restraint. Without having knowledge, you can't say anything. You can't take it so lightly. Superstar is not upar (above the law, sir."
Interim Relief Granted
Despite the strong statements, the High Court has allowed the interim relief to Ranveer Singh. The Court has directed the State not to take any coercive measures against him until March 3, when the case will be heard again. However, this relief comes with a condition. Singh has to cooperate with the investigation.
Ranveer Singh’s Stand
Ranveer Singh told the Court that his words were taken out of context. He said that he never had any intention to offend any religion or community. He also posted an unconditional apology on social media, stating that he respects all cultures and traditions.