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.
A fresh controversy has erupted at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) after the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) filed an official complaint against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh. The organisation has accused the actor of insulting religious sentiments during IFFI’s closing ceremony in Goa.
According to the complaint, Ranveer Singh allegedly mimicked the divine form portrayed in the film Kantara – Chapter 1 and further referred to Chamundi Daiva, a revered Kotitulu deity, as a “female ghost.” These remarks, HJS claims, were disrespectful and amounted to derogatory comments against a sacred cultural tradition.
The HJS stated that the Daiva tradition, particularly in coastal Karnataka, is deeply rooted in spirituality, family lineage, and centuries-old rituals. Any misrepresentation, they argue, can hurt the sentiments of devotees and distort the understanding of indigenous cultural practices.
The complaint seeks:
A police inquiry into the actor’s statements
Appropriate legal action for hurting religious sentiments
A public apology from Ranveer Singh
The organisation also expressed concern that influential public figures must remain sensitive while representing cultural or religious symbols on prominent platforms such as IFFI.
Police have acknowledged receipt of the complaint, and further inquiry is awaited.
This controversy comes at a time when Kantara’s cultural impact has remained strong, especially among communities who consider Daiva worship a sacred responsibility rather than a performative art.
Further updates are expected as the matter progresses.
The Indian Premier League could be on the verge of a seismic shift as reports indicate that acclaimed Kannada powerhouse Hombale Films is exploring the possibility of acquiring Royal Challengers Bengaluru from current owner Diageo India. The development has created a surge of excitement, particularly in Karnataka, where both RCB and Hombale command immense loyalty and cultural influence. Early conversations between the two parties have reportedly taken place, although neither side has issued an official confirmation.
Hombale Films, known for redefining Indian cinema with massive hits like K.G.F., Kantara, and Salaar, is believed to be looking at long-term diversification, and a team with RCB’s stature offers a significant entry point into elite sports ownership. The connection between the two brands is not new; Hombale has been associated with RCB since April 2023 as their official digital partner, crafting cinematic promos, campaigns, and high-impact visual storytelling that strengthened the team’s cultural footprint. With RCB securing their maiden IPL trophy in 2025, their brand valuation has soared to an estimated USD 2 billion, placing them among the most valuable cricket franchises globally and attracting interest from several major players, including Nikhil Kamath, Adani Group, JSW Group, Adar Poonawalla, and Devyani International.
Despite multiple suitors, the potential Hombale–RCB partnership stands out due to its deep-rooted regional synergy. For Karnataka, this would symbolize the union of two icons: a beloved cricket team and a studio that brought Kannada cinema to national and international recognition. Such a collaboration could reshape fan engagement, build stronger cultural identity, and create a narrative that transcends sport. With Kannada cinema at its peak and RCB fresh off a historic title win, the timing feels particularly significant.
As the franchise prepares for IPL 2026, RCB has retained a solid core under new full-time captain Rajat Patidar. The retained roster includes stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, ensuring continuity and strength heading into the mega auction. A potential change of ownership, combined with a strong sporting foundation, could propel RCB into an exciting new era defined by cultural pride, cinematic storytelling, and cricketing ambition. The coming months may determine whether this unprecedented partnership becomes a reality, but the buzz it has already generated reveals how powerful such a union could be.
Goa, India – Cycle Pure Agarbathi, India’s leading agarbathi manufacturer, celebrates 77 years of fragrance, faith, and purpose as it expands its footprint across Goa. With a legacy that has enriched over six billion prayers worldwide, the brand continues to carry forward the spirit of Indian craftsmanship and devotion, blending tradition with innovation to create timeless experiences.
Founded in Mysuru, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has grown from a humble family enterprise into a global brand exporting to more than 75 countries. Its diverse range includes traditional agarbathies and contemporary wellness offerings under the IRIS Home Fragrances brand, now available across Goa through leading retail and quick commerce platforms. This expansion ensures that every home can experience the essence of purity, peace, and prayer with just a click.
Marking a milestone in its journey, Cycle Pure Agarbathi created history at the International Purple Fest Goa 2025 by unveiling and lighting a 125-feet agarbathi—the longest and most inclusive creation in its legacy. The event, graced by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, and other dignitaries, represented a beautiful convergence of tradition, inclusion, and innovation. The ceremonial lighting symbolized unity and celebration of diverse abilities at one of the world’s most inclusive cultural events.
Continuing its deep connection with art and culture, Cycle Pure Agarbathi recently collaborated with Kantara: Chapter 1, a PAN-Indian mythological action drama, as the official prayer partner. To commemorate this partnership, the brand launched the Three in One Parampara Agarbathi, a special edition inspired by Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. Each stick in this collection is a blend of divine fragrance and devotion, offering an experience that embodies spiritual resonance and artistic tradition.
Speaking on the expansion, Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director of Cycle Pure Agarbathi, said, “At Cycle Pure Agarbathi, we believe fragrance is a bridge between tradition and modern living. Our presence across all leading quick commerce platforms ensures that this sacred experience is just a click away—bringing purity, emotion, and heritage to homes instantly.”
Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Amarnath Datta, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, added, “Goa represents a vibrant confluence of culture, spirituality, and modern living—values that deeply resonate with our brand. Through our Cycle and IRIS product lines and creative collaborations like Kantara, we’re not just offering fragrance; we’re creating immersive experiences that connect with hearts and homes.”
Sustainability remains at the heart of Cycle Pure’s philosophy. With zero carbon emissions across its production facilities, plastic-free packaging, and natural ingredient sourcing, the brand has built an environmentally responsible model that blends spirituality with stewardship. The company also continues to empower communities through its Gadchiroli Agarbatti Project (GAP)—a rural livelihood initiative launched in 2014 that has uplifted over 1,200 tribal women, tripling their average household income.
Cycle Pure Agarbathi invites Goans to explore its complete range—from traditional incense to modern wellness products—crafted to transform ordinary moments into soulful rituals. As the brand enters its 78th year, it continues to uphold its vision of purity, empowerment, and sustainability, carrying forward a legacy of fragrance that touches lives, connects cultures, and inspires generations.
