Mamta Kulkarni Resigns as Mahamandaleshwar Amid Controversy

Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni has once again found herself in the spotlight, but this time for her spiritual journey rather than her cinematic achievements. On Monday, Kulkarni officially announced her resignation from the post of Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhara through a video message. She clarified that despite stepping down from the position, her devotion to spirituality remains unchanged as she continues her path as a “Sadhvi.” Her appointment as Mahamandaleshwar had sparked significant controversy within the religious community, particularly due to opposition from prominent figures such as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi and Kinnar Akhara founder Rishi Ajay Das. Addressing the public, Kulkarni stated, “I am resigning from the post of Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhara. I have been a ‘Sadhvi’ since childhood and will continue to be so.” This declaration highlights her commitment to a spiritual life, regardless of official designations.

Mamta Kulkarni ने महामंडलेश्वर के पद से इस्तीफ़ा दिया #MamtaKulkarni #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/VSLEZ1JEKv

— News18 India (@News18India) February 10, 2025

Backlash and Religious Opposition

"किसी को भी महामंडलेश्वर बना दिया जा रहा है, यह ठीक नहीं है"

◆ बाबा रामदेव ने कहा

◆ कुछ दिन पहले अभिनेत्री ममता कुलकर्णी को महाकुंभ में किन्नर अखाड़ा की महामंडलेश्वर बनाया गया था@yogrishiramdev | #RamDev | #MamtaKulkarni | Ram Dev | Mamta Kulkarni pic.twitter.com/OPocJQkp0E

— News24 (@news24tvchannel) January 27, 2025

The appointment of Mamta Kulkarni as Mahamandaleshwar during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on January 24 had ignited debates among saints and spiritual leaders. Yoga guru Baba Ramdev openly criticized her selection, questioning how someone could attain sainthood overnight. He emphasized that sainthood requires years of rigorous discipline and dedication to spiritual practices. In his statement, Ramdev remarked, “The Kumbh festival is a sacred tradition of Sanatan Dharma, and it should not be associated with obscenity or worldly indulgences.” Several religious leaders echoed this sentiment, arguing that such a prestigious title should only be conferred upon individuals with extensive spiritual training and experience. This growing dissent played a key role in Kulkarni’s decision to step down from the post. Despite the opposition, she remains firm in her spiritual pursuits and continues to be known by her new identity, “Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri.”

Mamta Kulkarni’s Journey from Bollywood to Spirituality

Mamta Kulkarni’s transformation from a Bollywood actress to a spiritual seeker has been nothing short of remarkable. She gained fame in the 1990s with hit films like Karan Arjun and Baazi, where she was admired for her glamorous screen presence. However, in the early 2000s, she made a conscious decision to step away from the entertainment industry, moving abroad and distancing herself from the limelight. Over the years, she embraced a spiritual lifestyle, eventually being recognized within religious circles. Her decision to resign from the Mahamandaleshwar post does not signal the end of her spiritual journey but rather a continuation of her devotion in a different capacity. As she reaffirms her commitment to a life of spiritual discipline, Mamta Kulkarni remains a subject of intrigue, transitioning from an actress to a spiritual figure whose journey continues to captivate the public.