Bengaluru, January 29, 2026 — A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against Bollywood star Ranveer Singh at the High Grounds Police Station in Bengaluru following allegations that he insulted the Chavundi Daiva tradition, a deeply revered cultural and religious practice of coastal Karnataka.
The complaint, filed by advocate Prashanth Methal, claims that the actor’s actions during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa amounted to hurting Hindu religious sentiments and disrespecting sacred traditions.
Alleged Incident at IFFI
According to the FIR, the controversial incident occurred on November 28, 2025, when Ranveer Singh was on stage praising the performance of Rishab Shetty in the Kannada film Kantara: Chapter-1. While commending Shetty’s acting, Ranveer reportedly mimicked the Daiva ritual expressions — central to the Bhoota Kola tradition — and referred to the Chavundi Daiva deity as a “female ghost.”
The complainant’s statement alleged that Singh’s imitation was “crude, comical and derogatory,” and added that he continued with the act despite a purported request not to enact a Daiva-related performance.
Religious and Cultural Sensitivity
Chavundi Daiva holds immense cultural and religious significance in the Tulu-speaking regions of coastal Karnataka. Worshipped as a guardian spirit symbolizing protection, justice, and divine feminine energy, devotees regard the Daiva tradition with deep reverence. The FIR claims that labeling this sacred figure a “ghost” was a serious misrepresentation that hurt religious feelings and caused distress among followers.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Following an order by the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court in Bengaluru on January 23, 2026, the High Grounds police registered the FIR on January 28, 2026. Singh has been booked under various relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including provisions related to outraging religious sentiments.
The case is scheduled to be heard in court on April 8, 2026, marking the next step in ongoing legal scrutiny into the matter.
Ranveer Singh’s Response and Earlier Backlash
This is not the first backlash related to the actor’s imitation of Daiva elements. After the incident at IFFI went viral on social media last year, Ranveer Singh issued a public apology, stating that his intention was to highlight Rishab Shetty’s powerful performance and expressing regret for any hurt caused to cultural sentiments.
However, critics argue that the apology was insufficient, and the issue resurfaced when multiple complaints were filed, culminating in the Bengaluru FIR.
Broader Cultural Conversation
The controversy has reignited discussions around the representation of indigenous traditions in mainstream cinema and at public events. Religious leaders and cultural advocates emphasize the need for sensitivity and deeper understanding when referencing traditional practices, especially in high-visibility forums.
As the legal process unfolds, all eyes will be on the upcoming court hearings to determine the next steps in this high-profile case.
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