Bengaluru, April 10 (NationPress) Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh expressed on Friday before the Karnataka High Court his readiness to collaborate with the complainant to modify the language of his apology affidavit concerning his mimicry of a character from the film 'Kantara: Chapter 1'.

This declaration followed the complainant's claim that the actor’s affidavit lacked genuine remorse.

The court was adjudicating Singh’s petition aimed at dismissing an FIR lodged against him regarding the incident that occurred at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa last year.

During the festival, Singh reportedly mimicked a character portrayed by actor Rishab Shetty and referred to a deity as a “female ghost,” which sparked objections.

Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, representing Singh, informed Justice M. Nagaprasanna that an affidavit of apology had already been submitted. He noted that Singh had also indicated in the affidavit his intention to visit the relevant temple to offer his prayers.

However, the counsel for the complainant contended that the affidavit was unclear and did not sufficiently convey remorse. They emphasized that the intentions stated in the affidavit were inadequately articulated and called for a more precise and clear apology.

Poovayya referenced sections of the affidavit in which Singh claimed he was unaware that his actions would offend worshippers and expressed regret over the matter. He also highlighted that Singh had issued an unconditional public apology upon realizing the repercussions of his comments.

The complainant’s counsel insisted that a more detailed affidavit be presented. In turn, Poovayya assured the court that he would collaborate with the complainant to draft a revised document that would fulfill their requirements.

After considering both arguments, the court postponed the case until April 23 and instructed that a revised affidavit be submitted that meets the complainant’s expectations.

It is worth noting that Ranveer Singh faced backlash after referring to a deity as a “female ghost” while performing a scene of divine possession at the IFFI in Goa. His comments ignited outrage, with many individuals taking to social media to accuse the actor of offending religious sentiments.

In response to the criticism, Ranveer Singh apologized on Instagram for imitating Kannada actor Rishab Shetty’s performance in 'Kantara: Chapter 1'. He conveyed remorse for the incident and stated he sincerely regretted his actions.

However, following the controversy, an FIR was filed based on a complaint lodged by an advocate under Sections 196, 299, and 302, which pertain to promoting enmity, outraging religious feelings, and intentionally hurting religious sentiments.

Ranveer Singh has approached the court seeking to annul the FIR. Previously, the High Court had suspended any punitive measures against him while reminding him that, as a public figure, he should be cautious with his words and actions to avoid offending the religious sentiments of any community.