Ranveer Singh controversies: Recalling ‘Kantara’ row, nude photoshoot and more amid FWICE directive over 'Don 3' exit

Ranveer Singh has built a reputation for being one of Bollywood’s most energetic and unpredictable stars. Whether through his unconventional fashion choices, outspoken personality, or high-profile projects, the actor rarely stays away from headlines for long. But alongside his successful film career, Ranveer has also repeatedly landed in controversies that sparked online outrage, legal complaints, and public debate. Most recently, his reported exit from ‘Don 3’ has once again placed him at the centre of industry chatter.

Here’s a look at some of the most talked-about controversies linked to the actor over the years.

Ranveer Singh recently landed in controversy after reports emerged about his sudden exit from ‘Don 3’. The issue escalated after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) announced a non-cooperation directive following a complaint from Farhan Akhtar. Reports claimed the actor allegedly stepped away from the film shortly before shooting, causing financial setbacks. Singh's team later responded, saying he prefers to handle such matters with “dignity, maturity and mutual respect.”

In 2025, Ranveer faced criticism after recreating the famous Daiva sequence from ‘Kantara’ during the International Film Festival of India in Goa. Sections of the Kannadiga community accused the actor of disrespecting the cultural and spiritual importance of the scene originally performed by Rishab Shetty. The backlash eventually led to an FIR being filed. Ranveer later apologised publicly and also visited the Chamundeshwari Temple following court-related developments.

Ranveer Singh became part of one of Bollywood’s biggest controversies with the AIB Knockout Roast in 2014. The comedy event featured explicit jokes and adult humour involving Ranveer, Arjun Kapoor, and Karan Johar. After clips from the show went viral online, multiple complaints and FIRs were filed alleging obscenity and vulgarity. While supporters defended the roast as comedy and free speech, critics called the content offensive and inappropriate.

Ranveer sparked another nationwide debate in 2022 after posing nude for a magazine photoshoot. While many appreciated the bold artistic concept and praised the actor for challenging stereotypes, others strongly objected to the images. Legal complaints were filed, and Mumbai Police reportedly questioned the actor as part of the investigation. Reports also claimed Ranveer informed authorities that one of the viral images had been morphed and tampered with.

In 2016, Ranveer faced backlash over a controversial advertisement campaign for the fashion brand Jack & Jones. The ad featured him carrying a woman over his shoulder with the tagline, “Don’t hold back. Take your work home.” Many social media users and activists criticised the campaign for promoting sexism and objectifying women. Following widespread outrage, the advertisement was reportedly removed, and Ranveer later admitted that they had “got it wrong.”

One of Ranveer Singh’s older controversies resurfaced years later through social media clips from ‘Koffee With Karan’. During the episode featuring Anushka Sharma, the actor made remarks that many viewers considered inappropriate and sexist. Anushka visibly appeared uncomfortable and even responded to him on camera. The clip later went viral again during conversations about problematic celebrity behaviour, with many social media users criticising Ranveer’s comments and attitude.