Ranveer Singh moves to Karnataka HC to quash case over ‘Kantara’ mimicry, seeks immediate hearing but the court says no special treatment
Times of India
by TOI ENTERTAINMENT DESKFebruary 23, 2026
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Ranveer Singh is currently embroiled in a legal battle following backlash over his mimicry of Rishab Shetty's character from *Kantara* in Chapter 1. The actor has sought to have the criminal case dismissed at the Karnataka High Court, arguing that his imitation was intended as a playful tribute and admiration for Shetty’s performance, not an insult. His legal team contends that Singh’s gesture of appreciation was misinterpreted as a wrongful act, leading to stress from two police notices. However, the court denied an urgent hearing, emphasizing that celebrity status does not warrant special treatment.
The court, presided over by Justice M Nagaprasanna in Bengaluru, questioned whether cases should be prioritized based on the accused's fame, even if they were Hollywood celebrities. This stance highlights a commitment to impartiality, underscoring that legal processes remain unaffected by an individual’s prominence. The case will now proceed as scheduled without expedited action.
This situation reflects broader concerns about free expression and defamation in the digital age. While public figures often face scrutiny over their actions, cases like Singh's raise questions about where appreciation ends and defamation begins. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for balancing artistic freedom with potential defamation claims, particularly when celebrities are involved. It also underscores the challenges courts face in maintaining fairness despite public and media attention.
The case not only impacts Singh’s personal reputation but also broader societal norms around celebrity behavior and legal accountability. As the matter unfolds, it will likely spark discussions on how justice systems handle high-profile cases, aiming to strike a balance between due process and timely resolution.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026