Viral video: Rishab Shetty signals no to Ranveer Singh Kantara mimicry

As social media erupted with backlash against Ranveer Singh for mimicking Rishab Shetty's portrayal of the Daivas in Kantara, a new video from the International Film Festival of Goa (IFFI) 2025 has gone viral. The clip shows an interaction between the two actors in which Shetty appears to express disapproval as Singh imitates the Daiva performance from Kantara Chapter 2.
The widely shared video shows Shetty visibly signalling "no" with his finger after Singh breaks into mimicry while greeting him. The gesture has been interpreted by many viewers as a sign of discomfort or displeasure.
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Singh was among the biggest Bollywood names present at the IFFI 2025 closing ceremony. Upon entering the venue, he first greeted superstar Rajinikanth, who was seated in the front row with his wife, Lata Rajinikanth. Rishab Shetty was seated next to them. After touching Rajinikanth's feet, Singh hugged Shetty before attempting to imitate his Daiva performance as a mark of admiration.
Later, during his speech on stage, Singh attempted to praise Shetty's performance but referred to Chamundi Daiva - the divine female spirit embodied by Shetty in the film - as a "female ghost," a remark that triggered strong criticism online.
"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, drawing backlash for unintentionally disrespecting a sacred cultural tradition.
Many social media users called Singh's comment tone-deaf and disappointing for an artiste of his stature. Others felt his mimicry trivialised deeply rooted cultural and spiritual practices depicted in the film.
On Tuesday, Singh issued a statement apologising for his conduct at IFFI 2025. He clarified that his intention was solely to appreciate Shetty’s acting in Kantara Chapter 2.
"My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it takes to perform that particular scene in the way he did, for which he has my utmost admiration," he said.
Reaffirming his respect for India's cultural diversity, Singh added, "I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise."
Earlier, in an exclusive interview with IndiaToday.in, National Award-winning actor Rishab Shetty had requested fans of Kantara not to dress up as Daiva while watching the film in theatres. He said such acts trivialise sacred traditions and distort their spiritual significance.
He explained that the Daiva nartak (spiritual performer) was portrayed in the film with extreme care. "Uska jo seriousness hai, jo Daiva nartak hai, unko humne bahot carefully show kiya hai. Usme kuch bhi idhar-udhar nahi hona chahiye [We have treated it with deep seriousness. The Daiva nartak has been depicted with great care; nothing should be distorted]," he said.
Meanwhile, Singh’s upcoming film Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar, is set to hit theatres on December 5.
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