Rishab Shetty’s ‘No’ to Ranveer Singh’s Kantara Mimicry

New Delhi, December 2, 2025: A brief but highly charged video clip showing actor-director Rishab Shetty subtly signaling his disapproval of a spontaneous performance by fellow actor Ranveer Singh has become a massive online sensation. The moment, which occurred during a high-profile Bollywood awards ceremony, instantly polarized social media users, focusing attention on the delicate cultural reverence surrounding the film Kantara and its Bhoota Kola ritual portrayal.

The On-Stage Moment Is Captured

The viral footage was captured during the Filmfare Awards ceremony where Ranveer Singh, known for his energetic and often impromptu performances, was observed attempting to mimic the iconic, climactic Bhoota Kola dance sequence from the hit film Kantara. Ranveer Singh was seen enthusiastically mimicking the fierce facial expressions and hand gestures associated with the ritualistic dance, likely intended as a lighthearted tribute to the film’s success.

The cameras quickly cut to Rishab Shetty, the film’s writer, director, and lead actor, who was seated in the audience. Shetty was captured making a subtle but deliberate “no” gesture with his hand and head, a clear indication that the mimicry was not appreciated or deemed appropriate in that context. The respectful, yet firm, refusal by Shetty immediately went viral.

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cultural sensitivity Sparks Debate

The video ignited an immediate and intense online debate concerning cultural appropriation and sensitivity. The Kantara film is centered on the sacred Bhoota Kola ritual, a spiritual tradition deeply rooted in the coastal regions of Karnataka. Shetty has repeatedly emphasized that the ritual holds immense religious significance and should be treated with the utmost respect.

Many netizens strongly supported Shetty’s reaction. It was argued that the sacred ritual should not be reduced to a piece of entertainment or a casual moment of mimicry for a celebrity stage, especially by those who do not belong to the specific cultural context. The gesture was hailed as a powerful defense of the ritual’s sanctity against the commodification of culture.

Ranveer Singh’s Respectful Reaction Is Noted

Amid the controversy, it was also noted that Ranveer Singh’s reaction to the moment was one of immediate and sincere respect. Although the full exchange was brief, the senior actor was observed quickly halting his mimicry after realizing the reaction from Shetty and the seriousness of the issue.

The incident serves as a significant case study in the power of social media to instantly amplify and scrutinize cultural interactions in public spaces. It reinforced the message that while Kantara was a huge commercial success, its spiritual core should be protected and revered, not casually replicated for entertainment.