Tag: Cultural Sensitivity

Human Interest

Ranveer Singh issues apology after Kantara mimicry backlash

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has publicly apologised after igniting a firestorm of criticism for his mimicry of a sacred scene from the film Kantara – Chapter 1 at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 in Goa. The controversy erupted when Singh re-performed the film’s climactic “Daiva” scene — referring to the revered deity as a “female ghost” and mimicking the ritualistic expression on stage. What may have been intended as a tribute to Rishab Shetty’s intense performance instead struck a chord with many viewers as culturally insensitive and disrespectful.

In a post on his Instagram story, Singh clarified that his only intention was to highlight and appreciate Rishab Shetty’s exceptional acting. “Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene the way he did, for which he has my utmost admiration,” he wrote. He further stressed that he has “always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country.” He concluded by offering a heartfelt apology to anyone whose sentiments may have been hurt.

The backlash gained momentum after clips of the performance circulated widely on social media, with many condemning the imitation as dismissive of the spiritual and cultural significance of the “Daiva” tradition depicted in the film. A formal complaint was reportedly filed by a religious group, adding to the controversy. The incident — coming just days before the release of Singh’s next film — has brought renewed focus on the sensitivity required when engaging with regional cultural narratives.

Business

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Reaffirms Commitment to Values, Transparency & Responsibility

Tanisha Cardozo

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the world’s largest jewelry retailers, has reaffirmed its dedication to ethical conduct, cultural sensitivity, and transparency in an internal message to its 27,500 employees.

In an email seen by this publication, the company expressed immense pride in being rooted in India’s cultural heritage and guided by its core values of integrity, trust, and respect. “Our foundation of trust is built on values and strengthened by responsibility,” the company stated, adding that these principles define its identity and guide every decision.

The message came amid recent online discussions concerning a past marketing engagement that had generated strong public reactions. “Certain online narratives have circulated incomplete or misleading interpretations about the intent and context of a past marketing engagement, leading to impressions that do not reflect our true ethos or the principles that guide us,” the company clarified.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds also noted that upon learning of the issue, it acted immediately to discontinue the association and terminate the vendor relationship responsible for the campaign. “As an Indian brand, we consider it our moral duty to act with sensitivity, transparency, and respect,” the statement read.

This follows the Bombay High Court’s decision to grant ad-interim relief to Malabar Gold & Diamonds, directing the deletion of all defamatory social media posts, materials, and stories that made false claims against the company.

Reaffirming its identity as a brand that celebrates India’s craftsmanship and diversity, Malabar said, “Being Indian is reflected not only in our products and presence but in our mindset and moral compass. Our decisions are guided by principles, never by prejudice, and we deeply respect the varied perspectives expressed by our stakeholders.”

The company reiterated that it will continue to communicate with clarity and act responsibly. “We reaffirm our commitment to accountability, cultural sensitivity, and maintaining public trust. Malabar Gold & Diamonds will continue to uphold the values that have defined our brand since its inception.”

Established in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds operates over 410 showrooms across 14 countries and employs more than 27,500 people globally. With a turnover of US$7.36 billion in FY 2024–25, it stands among the world’s top five jewelry retailers. The company’s continued growth is underpinned by its unwavering dedication to ethical practices, transparency, and social responsibility — values that remain at the heart of its success.