Amidst Controversy, Mamta Kulkarni Resigns As A Mahamandaleshwar

PRAYAGRAJ, (ANI)– Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni has stepped down as Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada following backlash and internal disputes.

Her resignation comes amid questions about her spiritual standing and past in the film industry. The Kinnar Akhada had earlier expelled the Karan Arjun actress and her mentor, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, citing tensions within the religious group.

Kulkarni announced her resignation in a video on Instagram. “Main Mahamandaleshwar Yamai Mamta Nandagiri, main iss post se istifa de rahi hoon. Aaj Kinnar Akhade ya dono akhade ke beech jo mujhe leke problems ho rahi hain. Main ek Sadhvi thi 25 saal se aur main Sadhvi hi rahungi,” she said.

“Bollywood ko maine 25 saal pehle chhoda. Main apne aap gayab rahi. Warna makeup se, Bollywood se itna door kaun rehta hai?” she added.

The controversy over her appointment began when Acharya Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi publicly announced the decision during the Maha Kumbh.

Mamta Kulkarni, known for her roles in 1990s Bollywood films, had left the industry in the early 2000s. However, she later returned to India and was granted the Mahamandaleshwar title by Tripathi.

Transgender Kathavachak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa had raised concerns over Kulkarni’s appointment, questioning her credibility and linking her past to criminal activities.

“Mamta Kulkarni has been made Mahamandaleshwar for publicity. Society knows her past very well. She was even jailed in connection with drug cases. This needs investigation,” Himangi Sakhi said.

However, Kulkarni claimed she has never been jailed.