Controversy erupts over Rishab Shetty’s vow fulfillment ceremony at Mangaluru temple

MANGALURU: A controversy has erupted over the vow fulfillment ceremony (Nemootsava) held by actor-director Rishab Shetty and his team at the Jarandaya Banta and Warahi Panjurli temple in Mangaluru following the huge success of both ‘Kantara’ and ‘Kantara Chapter 1’.

The ceremony involved a traditional ‘Ennebooya’ ritual, where a ‘Daiva Nartaka’ (spiritual dancer) allegedly broke tradition by lying on Rishab Shetty’s lap, sparking outrage among devotees and traditionalists. Mukesh, the Daiva Nartaka involved, had guided Rishab Shetty on traditional rituals during the filming of ‘Kantara’ and had received a SIIMA award for his contributions.

While some support Mukesh, others accuse him of violating sacred traditions, leading to heated debates on social media. The incident has sparked intense anger among devotees, with many questioning Rishab Shetty’s actions. The controversy has also raised questions about the commercialization of traditional rituals and the need to respect sacred traditions.