While Kantara: Chapter 1 is creating a blockbuster sensation across India, a few viral videos showing fans imitating sacred Daiva rituals have sparked concern. In response, Hombale Films has issued a public statement addressing these incidents. The note comes after Tulukoota, a Tulu cultural organisation, expressed its discontent to Rishab Shetty over viewers’ inappropriate mimicry of sacred traditions following the film’s release.
While Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1 is making a blockbuster sensation all over India, on the other side, a few unsettling viral videos linked to the film have prompted Hombale Films, the production house, to step forward with a public statement addressing the recent incidents that have raised eyebrows across Tulu cultural circles. Hombale Films’ note to cinephiles and global audiences follows mounting concern from Tulukoota, a Tulu cultural organisation, which expressed its discontent to Rishab Shetty over how certain viewers have been mimicking sacred Daiva rituals after watching the film.
Over the past week, social media has been flooded with clips showing moviegoers imitating Daiva performances outside and inside theatres. One video, in particular, showed a man, seemingly in a trance, behaving as though possessed by a spirit, while another showed a person entering a cinema hall dressed in Daiva attire. The incidents, reminiscent of similar scenes that followed the 2022 release of Kantara, have reignited a sensitive debate around cultural representation and responsibility.
In its letter, Tulukoota strongly objected to such acts, reminding Rishab Shetty of his repeated public statements about his deep faith in the Daivas of Tulunadu. “We have no objection to your film, but as someone who believes in the Daiva tradition, you should also create awareness among your fans,” the letter stated. The group also questioned the filmmaker’s silence, asking why he did not include a disclaimer before screenings to discourage such behaviour. “We had requested this earlier, yet there seems to be indifference on your part. Please take immediate steps to issue a public message and ensure a disclaimer is added before the film’s screening,” the organisation urged.
The concern stems from the cultural sanctity of Dhaivaradhane, the traditional Daiva worship deeply rooted in Tulunadu’s spiritual identity. For the Tulu community, these rituals are not performances, but sacred acts of devotion and ancestral reverence. Mimicking them casually, especially in entertainment settings, is viewed as disrespectful and emotionally distressing.
Responding to these concerns, Hombale Films released a measured and heartfelt statement. “Dhaivaradhane stands as a profound symbol of faith and cultural pride within Tulunadu,” the statement begins, reaffirming that Kantara and its prequel were made to “respectfully portray this devotion and celebrate the glory of the Daivas.” The studio acknowledged the immense love the film has received but noted with concern that “certain individuals have been imitating the Daiva characters and engaging in inappropriate behaviour.”
The note goes on to stress that Dhaivaradhane or Daiva worship is not intended for performance or casual mimicry, and that such acts “trivialize our belief system and deeply hurt the sentiments of the Tulu community.” Hombale made a “strong and sincere appeal” to the public to refrain from such acts—whether inside theatres or in public spaces—and to uphold the sacredness of these traditions.
The statement concludes with an earnest reminder: “The sacred nature of Dhaivaradhane must always be upheld. We urge all citizens to recognise the spiritual importance of these portrayals and act responsibly.”
