Mumbai: After facing backlash for mimicking Rishab Shetty’s Daiva act from ‘Kantara’ at the closing ceremony of IFFI (International Film Festival of India) 2025, ‘Dhurandhar’ actor Ranveer Singh on Tuesday issued an apology for hurting religious sentiments.
“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,” Ranveer shared on his Instagram handle.
“I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise,” he said.
IFFI 2025 concluded in Goa on Friday.
At the event, when Ranveer took over the stage, he praised Rishab for his impressive performance in his latest release ‘Kantara Chapter 1’.
In the viral videos from the event, Ranveer was heard saying, “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.”
The actor then went on to imitate Rishab’s Daiva act from the film, disappointing social media users, who called it insensitive and disrespectful.
Another video showed Rishab telling Ranveer not to mimic him earlier in the show, which further angered fans.
On Monday, a Hindu group lodged a police complaint against Ranveer for hurting religious sentiments.
‘Dhurandhar’ will be released in theatres on December 5. Besides Ranveer, the film features Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna and Sara Arjun in key roles.
