An FIR has been registered in Bengaluru against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh on allegations of hurting religious sentiments. The complaint relates to Karnataka’s coastal daiva (Bhuta Kola) tradition, with the complainant alleging that the actor’s conduct at a public event amounted to disrespect of a deeply revered religious practice.
The case stems from an incident at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Goa, where Ranveer Singh was present during the closing ceremony. According to the complaint, the actor’s alleged gestures and remarks on stage offended members of the local community and hurt religious beliefs associated with the traditional daiva worship system.
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Incident linked to IFFI stage appearance
As per the complaint, the incident occurred on November 28, 2025, during the closing ceremony of IFFI. Ranveer Singh was on stage when he referred to actor-director Rishab Shetty’s film ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’, which draws heavily from the cultural and spiritual traditions of coastal Karnataka.
It is alleged that during the interaction, the actor made certain gestures and comments related to the Bhuta Kola tradition, which were perceived by sections of the audience as trivialising or mocking a sacred ritual. The complainant has claimed that such portrayal on a public platform amounted to an insult to religious faith.
The complaint further states that Rishab Shetty, who was present on stage, allegedly attempted to stop Ranveer Singh from continuing in the same manner. However, by that time, the segment had already been witnessed by the audience and later circulated, leading to widespread resentment among members of the community.
Lawyer files complaint citing religious offence
The complaint was filed by a Bengaluru-based lawyer, who argued that Bhuta Kola is not merely a folk art or cultural performance but a sacred religious practice followed for generations in the coastal regions of Karnataka. According to the complainant, presenting or mimicking the tradition in a casual or humorous manner on a national platform undermines its spiritual significance.
The complaint alleged that public figures carry a responsibility to exercise restraint while referring to religious traditions, particularly those deeply rooted in local belief systems.
FIR registered on court’s direction
The matter was first placed before a Bengaluru court, where a private complaint was filed on December 27, 2025. After examining the submissions, the court, on January 23, 2026, directed the police to register an FIR and initiate an investigation.
Following the court’s order, the police registered the case and began preliminary inquiries. The matter is currently listed before the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court, and the next hearing is scheduled for April 8.
Police sources said that relevant materials, including available video footage of the event, are being examined as part of the investigation. Further action will be taken based on the findings and legal provisions.
No official response from actor
As of now, Ranveer Singh or his representatives have not issued any official statement regarding the FIR or the allegations made in the complaint. Authorities confirmed that the registration of the case does not imply guilt and that the investigation will proceed in accordance with the law.
‘Kantara’ brought tradition into national spotlight
It is noteworthy that the film ‘Kantara’ had earlier drawn national attention to the daiva and Bhuta Kola traditions, sparking conversations about cultural representation and religious sensitivity. While the film was widely credited for showcasing the ritual with authenticity, the current controversy has once again highlighted the need for caution when referencing sacred traditions in public forums.
The legal position of the case will become clearer after the completion of the investigation and subsequent court proceedings.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
