The Karnataka High Court has given Bollywood star Ranveer Singh temporary relief in a case that’s become a nightmare for the actor. But the judges didn’t hold back when telling him exactly what they think
about his behaviour. On Tuesday, Justice M Nagaprasanna made it crystal clear that being a celebrity doesn’t give anyone the right to mock religious beliefs. The court stopped police from arresting Ranveer until March 2, but only after delivering a stinging lecture about responsibility.
Court Slams Ranveer Singh’s “Loose Tongue”
The judge was brutal in his assessment. “You may be Ranveer Singh or anybody. You can’t be loose tongued at all! We will see if there is mens rea.. But you being an actor, you have influence on so many people. You have to be responsible. If you are speaking about a deity (you have to do your research), you cant call it a ghost. You have no right to hurt anybody’s religious sentiments..You have apologised, but will your apology take back all the words? I, you, people may forget. But internet never forgets.”
The court didn’t stop there. They pointed out something that made Ranveer’s actions even worse. “Two factors. Rishab Shetty was performing an act of a Deity. Goddess Chamundy. He may or may not be aware of religious sentiments of people. He has spoken “female ghost” and act of mimicking Rishab Shetty, would definitely hurt sentiments…. You can’t be loose tongued!”
What Actually Happened at IFFI
The whole mess started at the International Film Festival of India in Goa last November. Ranveer took to the stage during the closing ceremony and decided to copy Rishab Shetty’s powerful Daiva performance from Kantara. But instead of showing respect, he turned it into a joke. Ranveer made exaggerated faces while mimicking the sacred act. Even worse, he called the daivas “ghosts” – a comment that sent shockwaves through Karnataka’s religious community. Rishab Shetty was sitting right there watching this happen. The Kantara star tried to stop him twice. First when Ranveer was on stage, and again when they met face-to-face. But Ranveer didn’t seem to get the message.
Legal Team Fights Back
Senior Advocate Sajan Poovayy represented Ranveer in court, arguing that people took his words the wrong way. The lawyer insisted there was no plan to hurt any community’s feelings.
What Happens Next
The court has given Ranveer breathing space until March 2. During this time, police can’t arrest him or take any harsh action. However, he has to cooperate fully with the investigation.The case has become a talking point about how celebrities should behave, especially when dealing with religious and cultural topics.
