Kantara row: Ranveer Singh to apologise in court, visit Chamundi temple

Bollywood star Ranveer Singh is set to apologise in court and visit the Chamundi temple following allegations of derogatory remarks in the film Kantara Chapter 1. The Karnataka High Court emphasised the responsibility of public figures to respect religious sentiments.

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday heard a petition filed by Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh seeking to quash a private complaint and FIR registered by the High Grounds Police Station. The case relates to alleged derogatory remarks made by the actor about a divine character in the film Kantara Chapter 1.

A single-judge bench of Justice M. Nagaprasanna expressed concern over the delay in filing objections and remarked that Ranveer Singh’s comments were "not right." The judge emphasised the responsibility of public figures in their statements.

During the hearing, the bench questioned the government on the delay in submitting objections. Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, representing Ranveer Singh, responded that it appeared there were no objections to file.

Advocate CG Malayali, representing the complainant, argued that Ranveer Singh’s apology was insincere. He pointed out that the actor had referred to Chamundi Daiva as a demon and had only issued an apology via a tweet managed by his team. Malayali insisted that since the alleged insult was oral, an oral apology was necessary.

Malayali further stated that Ranveer Singh should visit Chamundi Hill along with his counsel to apologise in person. The bench agreed, suggesting that if the complainant requested a court appearance for the apology, the actor should comply.

Senior advocate Poovayya assured the court that an affidavit of apology would be filed and that Ranveer Singh would visit Chamundi Hill. The bench stressed the importance of visiting the temple and showing remorse, highlighting the influence actors have on the public.