Rishab Shetty Asked Ranveer Singh Not To Copy Kantara Daiva—Here’s What Happened

The closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa turned unexpectedly controversial after a video of Ranveer Singh went viral, igniting widespread online criticism.
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What began as a gesture of admiration for Rishab Shetty’s performance in Kantara quickly escalated into a debate over cultural sensitivity and respect.

Rishab Shetty Allegedly Warned Ranveer Singh


Reports now suggest that the controversy could have been avoided. Rishab Shetty reportedly asked Ranveer not to mimic the Daiva scene even before the actor returned to the stage.


According to Bangalore Times, the incident happened backstage when Ranveer stepped off the stage to greet dignitaries, including Rajinikanth and Rishab Shetty. The source quoted, "Ranveer came down from the stage to greet the guests, including Rajinikanth and Rishab (Shetty). The moment he saw Rishab, he got excited and began mimicking the Daiva, which Rishab asked him to stop—though politely."

Despite the gentle caution, Ranveer recreated the moment on stage. The source added, "His intention wasn't wrong, but referring to the Daiva as a 'female ghost' and performing the act while wearing shoes shocked many. Rishab stayed calm and chose not to escalate it at such a high-profile event."


Social Media Backlash


In the viral clip, Ranveer enthusiastically recalled watching Kantara Chapter 1 in theatres. He said, "I watched Kantara in theatres, and Rishab's performance was outstanding, especially when the female ghost enters your body; that shot was so amazing."

He then mimicked the scene on stage and even asked the audience if they would like to see him in Kantara 3 . Netizens, however, felt the act trivialised a sacred tradition and urged the actor to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.

While neither Rishab nor Ranveer has issued an official statement, the revelation that Rishab had warned Ranveer beforehand adds a new layer to the controversy.