Bengaluru
A formal complaint has been filed at Bengaluru’s High Grounds Police Station against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh for allegedly hurting religious sentiments during the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28.
The complaint was lodged by advocate Prashant Methal, seeking legal action against the actor.
According to the complaint, Singh mocked the Panjurli/Guliga deity, a sacred divine power worshipped in coastal Karnataka, and verbally referred to it as “Bhoot” (female ghost). The deity, depicted in the film Kantara, is linked to Hindu beliefs and cultural traditions, and calling it a ghost was seen as offensive by devotees. The video of Singh’s remarks went viral, generating anger, resentment, and mental distress among followers and the local Tulu-speaking community.
The complaint alleges that Singh’s actions not only mocked the film but also insulted deeply rooted religious practices, potentially disturbing public peace and promoting enmity among communities. The legal plea requests that an FIR be lodged against Singh under sections 295, 196, 352, and other relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code for insulting religious beliefs and provoking unrest.
Advocate Methal emphasized that legal action is necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future and to safeguard the sentiments of devotees. Authorities are reviewing the complaint, and public reactions continue to pour in, highlighting sensitivities around religious representation in media and public events.
