Bengaluru, Mar 24: The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday directed Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh to tender an apology and visit Chamundi Hill temple in connection with a controversy over his remarks on a revered deity during a public event.
The direction came while the court was hearing Singh’s plea seeking to quash an FIR and private complaint lodged against him following the incident at the International Film Festival of India 2025.
A bench led by Justice M Nagaprasanna pulled up the actor, observing that “what Ranveer did is not right,” and emphasised that public figures must act responsibly given their influence on society.
The controversy stems from Singh’s on-stage act where he mimicked a divine character, Chamundi Daiva, from the film Kantara Chapter 1 in the presence of actor-director Rishab Shetty. During the performance, he allegedly referred to the deity as a “demon” or “female ghost,” triggering widespread outrage and legal complaints.
During the hearing, the court stressed the need for genuine remorse. “You must visit the temple. A mistake has occurred. There must be a sense of remorse. Actors have a strong influence on people,” the bench observed.
Counsel for the complainant argued that Singh’s earlier apology on social media lacked sincerity, contending that “since the insult was made orally… he should apologise orally.” The defence, led by senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, assured the court that an affidavit of unconditional apology would be filed and that the actor would comply with the directions, including visiting Chamundi Hill.
The court indicated that a personal apology and affidavit expressing regret could help resolve the matter, while leaving open the possibility of requiring Singh’s appearance if sought by the complainant.
The incident had sparked strong reactions online after a video clip went viral, with several users criticising the act as “insensitive” and disrespectful to religious sentiments.
The matter has been adjourned to April 10 for further hearing.
