Ranveer Singh stirred up controversy earlier this month when he imitated the daivas on stage at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Actor-director Rishab Shetty of Kantara voiced his displeasure with the on-stage imitation of Daiva ceremonies in his first statement following the event. He spoke about it without mentioning Ranveer Singh by name. He sought advice from several elders as a director to ensure everything was portrayed with respect.

Rishab Shetty opened up about the risks of reducing culture and tradition to pop culture when creating a movie like Kantara. He expressed discomfort with the on-stage imitation of Daiva rituals while speaking at the Behindwoods event in Chennai.

Rishab Shetty said, "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."

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Additionally, Rishab Shetty stated that viewers must understand the significance and emotional depth of these customs.

Ranveer Singh's Apology Post Controversy

For those who don't know, Ranveer Singh met Rishab Shetty at IFFI and imitated the daivas while talking about Kantara. Even though the Kannada star asked him not to, the actor made the same gesture on stage.

Many people on the internet criticised the viral moment for being disrespectful to a sacred practice.

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Ranveer Singh posted an apology on Instagram following strong backlash for what was perceived as an insult to the daivas. He wrote, "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. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I've hurt anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologise (sic)."

Meanwhile, Rishab's Kantara (2022) and Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025) are the highest-grossing Kannada movies after KGF Chapter 2. Ranveer Singh's spy thriller Dhurandhar, which is currently showing in theatres, is one of the year's highest-grossing Hindi movies this year.