Kannada superstar Rishab Shetty has voiced discomfort over the mimicking of sacred Daiva rituals, in what appears to be his first public response to the controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh’s imitation at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025. Speaking at a Behindwoods event in Chennai on December 15, 2025, Shetty emphasized the emotional and spiritual significance of Daivas in Tulu culture, stating, “That makes me uncomfortable. While much of the film is cinema and performance, the Daiva element is sensitive and sacred. I ask that it not be mocked or performed on stage wherever I go. It is emotionally deeply connected to us.”
The IFFI Incident: Admiration Turned Controversy
The row erupted during IFFI’s closing ceremony in Goa on November 29, 2025, when Ranveer Singh enthusiastically praised Shetty’s performance in Kantara: Chapter 1 but mimicked the intense Daiva possession scene—crossing his eyes and sticking out his tongue—while referring to Chamundi Daiva as a “female ghost.” Videos showed Shetty politely signaling Singh to stop before the on-stage act, yet the imitation proceeded, sparking backlash for disrespecting Bhoota Kola traditions. Ranveer apologized on December 1, clarifying his intent was admiration: “If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.
“Shetty’s Stance: Respect Over Reenactment
Shetty, without naming Singh, highlighted the risks of portraying traditions in cinema: “There’s always a fear that culture and belief could be diluted into pop culture.” He revealed consulting elders for authenticity in Kantara and repeatedly requesting no onstage mimicry. “It’s not okay to mimic Daiva rituals,” his words imply, underscoring the rituals’ sacredness in coastal Karnataka’s Tulu community.
Broader Debate: Cinema and Cultural Boundaries
The incident has fueled discussions on cultural sensitivity in pan-India cinema. Kantara’s success popularized Daiva elements, but Shetty warns against trivialization. Fans supported his view: “Rishab speaking for our traditions—respect!” while others noted Ranveer’s apology resolved the matter.
A Call for Caution
Rishab Shetty’s reaction isn’t accusation—it’s awareness. As mimicry meets sacred meaning, it thunders: Can admiration avoid offense? His respectful reminder affirms the need for reverence in cinema’s ceaseless celebration of culture.
-By Manoj H