Karnataka: A criminal case has been filed against Hindi film actor Ranveer Singh after allegations surfaced that his actions at a film festival event hurt the religious sentiments of devotees associated with a traditional worship practice from Karnataka’s coastal region.
The High Grounds police in Bengaluru registered the case following directions from an Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACJM) court, which ordered an investigation into a private complaint filed by city-based advocate Prashanth Methal, aged 46.
The FIR has been lodged under Sections 196, 299 and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, police officials said on Thursday.
As per the complaint, the incident occurred during the valedictory function of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Goa on November 28, 2025. The complainant alleged that while appearing on stage alongside the lead actor of Kantara: Chapter 1, Ranveer Singh performed gestures and expressions that allegedly trivialised and disrespected the Bhoota Kola ritual tradition practised in Coastal Karnataka.
Methal, who identified himself as a lifelong devotee of Chavundi Daiva—also described as his family deity—claimed that the actor mimicked sacred representations of Panjurli and Guliga Daiva in a manner he found objectionable. He further alleged that the deity Chavundi Daiva was verbally referred to as a “female ghost,” which he described as deeply offensive and contrary to its religious significance.
According to the complaint, even after concerns were reportedly raised, the actor went ahead with a dramatic enactment of a Chavundi Daiva-related scene from Kantara: Chapter 1 during the event.
The complainant emphasised that Chavundi Daiva is revered as a powerful guardian spirit embodying protection, justice and divine feminine strength, and holds immense cultural and spiritual value among devotees. Labeling the deity as a ghost, he stated, amounted to a serious insult to Hindu faith and ritual practices.
It was also alleged that footage of the performance spread rapidly across social media platforms, leading to widespread outrage, emotional distress and anger among members of the community. Methal said he learned of the incident after watching the viral video online.
Claiming that the act was carried out knowingly on an international stage, the complainant alleged that it was deliberate and intended to provoke religious outrage.
Police officials said the matter is under investigation and further action will be taken based on the findings.
