Ranveer Singh has moved the Karnataka High Court seeking to quash a criminal case registered against him over his recent remarks and imitation linked to the daiva portrayal in the film Kantara. The case was filed after objections were raised to certain comments made by the actor, with complainants alleging that his statements were inappropriate and hurt sentiments.
According to the petition submitted before a bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, Singh has argued that his remarks were meant purely as praise for the film and its lead actor, Rishab Shetty. His legal counsel contended that the comments have been misinterpreted and wrongly given a criminal angle. The petition emphasizes that there was no malicious intent behind the actor’s words and that they were made in admiration of the performance and characterisation depicted in Kantara.
The controversy reportedly stems from Singh’s public imitation and references to the daiva performance from the film, which some individuals claimed were disrespectful. However, his legal team has maintained that the actor’s actions were rooted in appreciation rather than mockery. The plea further notes that the police have already issued two notices to Singh in connection with the matter, creating what his counsel described as unnecessary pressure.
During the hearing, Singh’s lawyers sought urgent listing and immediate consideration of the petition. However, Justice Nagaprasanna questioned the request for special urgency. The court reportedly asked whether the case warranted immediate attention simply because the petitioner is a prominent Bollywood actor. The judge further remarked whether the same level of urgency would be expected if the applicant were, for instance, a Hollywood star.
The court declined the plea for a same-day hearing and opted to follow its standard procedural schedule. As a result, the matter has been posted for hearing on Tuesday. The judge’s remarks during the proceedings highlighted the principle that all litigants are equal before the law, irrespective of their public stature.
The case has drawn attention not only because of Singh’s celebrity status but also due to the cultural sensitivity surrounding Kantara. The film, directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, received widespread acclaim for its portrayal of coastal Karnataka’s traditions and the ritualistic daiva performance. The movie became a major commercial and critical success, with audiences praising its rooted storytelling and intense performances.
Given the film’s cultural context, any perceived misrepresentation or insensitive commentary can evoke strong reactions. However, Singh’s petition underscores that his comments were intended as recognition of the artistic achievement rather than an attempt to undermine it.
Legal observers note that petitions seeking quashing of criminal proceedings are typically examined on whether the allegations, even if taken at face value, constitute an offence under the law. The High Court will likely assess whether Singh’s remarks meet the threshold required to sustain criminal charges or whether the matter can be resolved without further proceedings.
For now, the actor awaits the scheduled hearing, where the court will consider his plea in detail. The outcome will determine whether the criminal case proceeds or is set aside. As the legal process unfolds, the matter continues to spark debate about artistic expression, interpretation, and the boundaries of public commentary.