Ranveer Singh Issues Apology for Comments on Goddess Chamundadevi

Actor Ranveer Singh has publicly apologised following a backlash over comments he made during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025, held in Goa. His remarks, made while referencing a scene from the film 'Kantara', led to significant online criticism and calls for accountability from various Hindu groups.

The apology was posted on Singh's social media platforms on Tuesday, where he clarified his intentions. "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," Singh stated. He emphasised that it was never his aim to offend any cultural beliefs, adding, "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 erupted during the IFFI ceremony, where Singh praised Rishabh Shetty's performance in 'Kantara', which premiered on October 2, 2025. However, the atmosphere shifted when Singh referred to a pivotal possession scene in the film. He mistakenly described a goddess as a "female ghost" and mimicked the act on stage, which many viewers deemed disrespectful due to the cultural and religious significance of the scene.

In response to Singh's comments, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS), a Hindu activist group, lodged a complaint with the Panaji Police on Monday. They alleged that Singh had insulted Goddess Chamundadevi by imitating the divine representation of the deity, who is venerated by the Tulu community. The HJS claimed that referring to Chamundi Daiva in derogatory terms amounted to disrespect and could incite public unrest.

HJS representatives Pramod Tuyekar and Dilip Shetye submitted a formal memorandum to local authorities, requesting the registration of an offence under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, a legal framework governing criminal law in India. They stressed the sacred nature of Chamundi Daiva to the Tulu community, stating, "Depicting or describing the deity in a derogatory manner amounts to disrespect. Such acts may cause public resentment and disturb peace."

In addition to seeking a public apology, the organisation urged Singh to promise that he would avoid making similar remarks or performances in the future.

This incident comes just days before the release of Singh's upcoming action film, 'Dhurandhar', which is scheduled to hit theatres on December 5, 2025. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film features a star-studded cast, including Arjun Rampal, Kashaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and Sara Arjun. The timing of the controversy raises questions about its potential impact on the film's reception and Singh's public image.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the backlash will affect Singh's career and the upcoming film’s release. The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding cultural representations in Indian cinema and the repercussions that can arise from perceived disrespect towards religious figures.