Karnataka High Court Grants Interim Relief to Ranveer Singh Amid Controversy
Court's Response to Ranveer Singh's Actions
On February 24, the Karnataka High Court expressed its disapproval of Ranveer Singh's actions, labeling them as 'insensitive,' while simultaneously providing him with interim protection in the ongoing controversy surrounding the Kantara 2 mimicry incident. The actor had approached the court to dismiss an FIR filed against him due to comments made during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28, 2025. The complaint alleged that he made disrespectful remarks while imitating a sacred scene from Rishabh Shetty's Kantara 2. Although the court issued stern verbal remarks, it instructed the State not to take any punitive measures against Singh for the time being.
Details from the Hearing
What Did The Karnataka High Court Say?
The case was reviewed by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, who presided over a single-judge bench. Ranveer sought legal recourse after an FIR was lodged at the High Grounds police station in Bengaluru. Senior advocate Sajjan Poovayya, representing Singh, informed the court that the actor had already conveyed his regret regarding the incident. He argued that Ranveer's performance at IFFI was intended as a homage to Rishab Shetty and his impactful role in Kantara: Chapter 1, asserting that there was no intention to offend religious sentiments.
However, the court remained skeptical. The bench emphasized that public figures should exercise greater caution in their speech and actions. The judge remarked, "Regardless of your status, such insensitivity is unacceptable." The court further noted that being a celebrity entails a significant responsibility, particularly when one has the ability to influence a vast audience. The judge pointed out that while people may forget such events, 'the internet won’t forget,' underscoring the permanence of public statements online.
Despite these observations, the High Court instructed the State not to take any coercive actions against Ranveer, provided he cooperates with the ongoing investigation. The case is scheduled for another hearing on March 2.
Background of the Kantara 2 Mimicry Incident
All About The Kantara 2 Mimicry Row
The controversy erupted during the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 in Goa, where Ranveer reportedly imitated the sacred Daiva sequence from Kantara: Chapter 1. Reports indicated that he referred to the esteemed Chamundi or Chavundi Daiva as a female ghost or devil while mimicking the deity’s expressions. Many viewers perceived this act as a mockery of religious customs, leading to feelings of offense. Following a private complaint filed by Bengaluru-based advocate Prashanth Methal, an FIR was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Kantara: Chapter 1, featuring Rishab Shetty, was widely praised for its portrayal of local customs and deities, making the alleged mimicry particularly sensitive.