The Karnataka High Court on Saturday reached a resolution in the controversial “Kantara mimicry row” involving Bollywood star Ranveer Singh. A bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna accepted the actor’s undertaking to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysuru to tender an unconditional apology. The legal battle began after Ranveer’s remarks at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 2025, where he mimicked a sacred deity from the film Kantara and referred to the deity as a “female ghost,” drawing sharp criticism for being insensitive toward the religious sentiments of Coastal Karnataka.
Senior counsel Sajjan Poovayya, representing the actor, submitted a revised affidavit expressing Ranveer’s deep regret and readiness to make amends. While the actor’s team initially cited security concerns regarding a specific timeline for the visit, the court emphasized that the Karnataka Police are capable of providing foolproof security. The bench indicated it would pass a formal order soon, likely directing the actor to visit Chamundi Hill within a four-week window to offer his prayers and apology before the goddess.
The complainant, advocate Prashant Methal, confirmed to the media that the matter has been settled, noting that the principle of forgiveness is fundamental to all faiths. Previously, an FIR had been registered against the actor under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for outraging religious feelings and promoting enmity. Justice Nagaprasanna had earlier pulled up the actor for being “reckless,” reminding public figures that freedom of expression does not excuse uninformed remarks about matters of faith. With the apology now accepted, the high-profile legal drama is expected to conclude once the temple visit is completed.
