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Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni has embarked on a new spiritual journey, assuming the prestigious title of Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhara at the ongoing Mahakumbh festival in Prayagraj. This marks a significant shift for Kulkarni, who left her acting career behind years ago and has since embraced a spiritual path. Her induction into this sacred position is a notable development in the world of spirituality, as she becomes a part of one of the oldest and most revered Akharas in India.
Induction Rituals and New Spiritual Name
According to Acharya Mahamandleshwar Laxmi Narayan, the induction rituals for Mamta Kulkarni are currently underway at the Mahakumbh. She has been given the spiritual name “Yamai Mamta Nandgiri” as part of her new identity in the Kinnar Akhada. Laxmi Narayan confirmed Kulkarni’s appointment as Mahamandleshwar, adding that she had been associated with the Kinnar Akhada for the past one and a half years.
Kulkarni’s new spiritual identity as Yamai Mamta Nandgiri marks a transition from her past life as a Bollywood star to one of religious significance. Laxmi Narayan emphasized that the Kinnar Akhada embraces all those who wish to contribute to its spiritual mission, regardless of their past or background. Kulkarni’s journey reflects the inclusive nature of the Akhada, which welcomes individuals from diverse walks of life to take up spiritual leadership roles.
The Role and Significance of Mahamandleshwar
The title of Mahamandleshwar is one of the highest honors in the Hindu spiritual community, granted to monks of the Dashanami order. The term “Mahamandleshwar” translates to “chief of great or numerous monasteries,” and those who hold this title are entrusted with the responsibility of spreading the teachings of Sanatana Dharma. As Mahamandleshwar, Kulkarni’s new duties will include promoting righteousness, guiding her followers spiritually, and contributing to society through charitable and social initiatives.
The Kinnar Akhada, which Mamta Kulkarni now leads, is an important monastic order that represents the transgender community. The Akhada is affiliated with the ancient Juna Akhada and plays a pivotal role in the Mahakumbh, serving as a spiritual center for sadhus and devotees. The Kinnar Akhada has its camp set up at Sector 16 (Sangam Lower East Marg) in the Mahakumbh tent city, where spiritual leaders and followers gather for religious rituals and discussions.
Mamta Kulkarni’s Spiritual Transformation
Mamta Kulkarni’s spiritual journey has been ongoing for several years. She has been associated with the Kinnar Akhada for over a year and has expressed her deep connection with the community and its values. Kulkarni was recently seen performing the traditional ‘Pind Daan’ at Sangam Ghat in Prayagraj, a ceremony to honor ancestors and seek blessings. Dressed in saffron attire with a rudraksha mala, she was accompanied by spiritual leaders Dr. Laxmi Narayan Tripathi and Swami Jai Ambanand Giri, further marking her immersion in spiritual practices.
Kulkarni explained her decision to take on the title of Mahamandleshwar as a response to divine orders and the wishes of her Guru. “This was the order of Mahadev, Maha Kaali. This was the order of my Guru. They chose this day. I didn’t do anything,” she told reporters, expressing her humility and dedication to her spiritual path.
The Kinnar Akhada and Its Role at the Mahakumbh
The Kinnar Akhada holds a special place in the Mahakumbh, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. As a monastic order that includes transgender sadhus, the Akhada emphasizes the importance of spiritual equality and inclusivity. It has become a symbol of hope and empowerment for the transgender community, which has historically faced discrimination. Kulkarni’s appointment as Mahamandleshwar represents a milestone for the Akhada, highlighting its evolving role in society and its acceptance of diverse identities within the spiritual fold.
Before embracing spirituality, Mamta Kulkarni was a well-known face in the Bollywood industry. She gained popularity in the 1990s with her roles in films like Karan Arjun and Baazi, where she starred alongside some of Bollywood’s biggest names, including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan. Her successful acting career was followed by a period of absence from the public eye.
Kulkarni’s name was also linked to a high-profile drug case in the past, but in 2022, the Bombay High Court quashed the criminal proceedings against her, citing a lack of evidence. Despite the controversies surrounding her, Kulkarni has now chosen to lead a life of spiritual service, leaving behind her film career to serve the community through her new role as Mahamandleshwar.
A New Chapter for Mamta Kulkarni
Mamta Kulkarni’s induction as the Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada marks a significant chapter in her life. From a celebrated Bollywood star to a spiritual leader of one of the most respected Akharas in India, her journey is a testament to transformation and personal growth. As she steps into her new role, Mamta Kulkarni’s commitment to her spiritual duties will likely inspire many, especially those who look up to the Kinnar Akhada for guidance and support.
