Ranveer Singh has told the Karnataka High Court that he is willing to revise the wording of his apology affidavit in a case linked to his alleged mimicry of a character from the film Kantara: Chapter 1 during the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
The matter arose after Singh allegedly imitated a performance by actor Rishab Shetty and referred to a deity as a “female ghost,” which triggered public outrage and complaints of hurting religious sentiments.
An FIR was subsequently registered against him under sections related to promoting enmity and offending religious feelings, following a complaint filed by an advocate.
Singh has already approached the High Court seeking to quash the FIR, and earlier received interim relief from coercive action. The court had also advised him to be mindful as a public figure.
During the latest hearing, Singh’s counsel, senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, informed the court that an apology affidavit had already been filed, in which the actor expressed regret and stated he was unaware that his actions could offend religious sentiments.
The affidavit also mentioned his willingness to visit a relevant temple and offer prayers, and referenced his earlier unconditional public apology posted on Instagram.
However, the complainant’s lawyer argued that the affidavit lacked clarity and did not demonstrate genuine remorse.
They insisted that the apology was insufficient and required more precise language to properly reflect accountability and sensitivity toward religious beliefs.
In response, Singh’s legal team said they were open to working with the complainant to redraft the affidavit so that it addressed all concerns and reflected appropriate remorse.
The High Court accepted this submission and directed that a revised affidavit be filed to the satisfaction of the complainant. The matter has been adjourned to April 23.
The controversy originated from Singh’s performance at IFFI, where his imitation of a ritualistic scene from Kantara sparked backlash on social media, with critics accusing him of disrespecting religious sentiments.
Following the backlash, Singh issued a public apology on Instagram, expressing regret for the incident.
Despite the apology, legal proceedings continued, with the FIR being filed under provisions dealing with deliberate insult to religion and promoting communal disharmony.
Singh’s petition to quash the FIR remains under consideration by the High Court. (IANS)
