Highlights
- Actor faces backlash for mimicking Bhoota Kola ritual in the film
- Apology stresses respect for culture and admiration for Rishab Shetty’s performance
- Film is a prequel to 2022 Kannada hit, exploring Bhoota Kola tradition
Singh issues apology after backlash
Hindi film actor Ranveer Singh has issued an apology after his comments on Kantara: Chapter 1 sparked criticism online. On Instagram, he said he respects every culture and tradition in India, and that his intention was to highlight Rishab Shetty’s performance.
“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. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise,” Singh wrote.
Controversy over Bhoota Kola reference
The apology follows strong backlash after Singh’s remarks at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 in Goa. While attempting to appreciate the film, he mistakenly referred to the daivas, or demigods, in Kantara: Chapter 1 as ghosts.
“I watched Kantara: Chapter 1 in theatres, and Rishab, it was an outstanding performance, especially when the female ghost (Chamundi daiva) enters your body, that shot was amazing,” Singh said.
He also mimicked Shetty’s performance of the daivas, a key element of the Bhoota Kola tradition in coastal Karnataka. This drew criticism from a Hindu organisation, which filed a complaint against the actor for allegedly disrespecting the ritual.
About Kantara: Chapter 1
The film, a box office hit, is a prequel to the 2022 Kannada release of the same name. Directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, it features Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah in supporting roles.
Set in pre-colonial coastal Karnataka, the film explores the Bhoota Kola ritual, blending regional lore, spirituality, and action. Its immersive storytelling is enhanced by B Ajaneesh Loknath’s music, Arvind S Kashyap’s cinematography, and Suresh Mallaiah’s editing.
Kantara: Chapter 1 is produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under Hombale Films, known for blockbuster franchises including KGF and Salaar.
