Karnataka High Court Directs Ranveer Singh to Express Remorse at Chamundi Hill Shrine in Deity Remarks Case

The Karnataka High Court has directed actor Ranveer Singh to visit the Chamundi temple and offer an in-person apology over remarks he made about the deity during an event in 2025. The direction came during a hearing of Singh's petition seeking to quash a private complaint and an FIR registered by the High Grounds Police Station in Bengaluru.

Justice M. Nagaprasanna, who presided over the case, observed that public figures must exercise caution when commenting on matters of faith. The court noted that celebrities influence large audiences and said a simple written apology might not be sufficient when religious sentiments are involved.

Kanataka High Court suggests temple visit and personal apology

During the proceedings, the court supported a suggestion that Singh should personally visit Chamundi Hill Temple. Advocate C. G. Malayali, representing the complainant, argued that the actor should appear at the temple with his legal team and apologise directly.

Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, appearing for Ranveer Singh, told the court that an affidavit would be filed and assured the bench that the actor would travel to the shrine and express regret. Justice Nagaprasanna said that visible remorse was important in such cases and could help resolve the dispute.

Controversy linked to IFFI 2025 event

The controversy stems from remarks made during the International Film Festival of India 2025 in Goa, where Ranveer Singh shared the stage with actor Rishab Shetty. While praising Shetty's performance in the film Kantara Chapter 1, Ranveer Singh reportedly mimicked the character of Chamundi Daiva and referred to the deity as a "demon," triggering backlash.

Following the incident, a private complaint was filed and an FIR registered, accusing the actor of insulting a divine figure. The complainant's counsel told the court that the remarks were made publicly and had hurt religious sentiments.

Debate over earlier apology

Ranveer Singh had earlier posted an apology on social media, expressing regret for the comment. However, the complainant's lawyer argued that the statement lacked sincerity and appeared to have been drafted by the actor's team. He insisted that since the alleged insult was spoken publicly, the apology should also be delivered personally.

The court noted that filing an affidavit, visiting the temple and, if required, apologising before the court could help address the issue. The matter has been scheduled for the next hearing on April 10, with Singh's father also present during the proceedings.