Actress Mamta Kulkarni, renowned for her stellar performances and diverse roles in Bollywood, has taken a surprising spiritual turn by renouncing her worldly life. At the grand Mahakumbh, she officially embraced asceticism and was anointed as a spiritual leader within the Kinnar Akhara. Her new spiritual name is now “Shri Yamai Mamtanand Giri.” This prestigious title of Mahamandaleshwar was bestowed upon her by the Kinnar Akhara, an institution established in 2015 that is distinct from the 13 principal Akharas of Sanatan Dharma. The Kinnar Akhara is led by its Acharya Mahamandaleshwar, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi.
The Initiation Ceremony
In line with the traditions of the Akhara, Mamta was dressed in saffron robes and adorned with a garland. The ritual included a sacred tilak made with vermillion and turmeric, accompanied by the chanting of Vedic mantras. She was also ceremonially bathed in milk. During this deeply emotional ceremony, tears welled up in her eyes, reflecting the gravity of her transformation.
Mamta first met Laxmi Narayan Tripathi on Friday, and it was soon announced that she would be conferred the title of Mahamandaleshwar. Just as organizations and governments are run by individuals in various positions, Akharas, too, follow a hierarchical structure. Within this hierarchy, the position of Mahamandaleshwar is second only to that of Shankaracharya and is one of the most revered titles.
The Journey to Becoming Mahamandaleshwar
To attain the title of Mahamandaleshwar, one must undergo significant spiritual rites, starting with performing their own “Pind Daan,” a symbolic ritual of renouncing worldly ties. Following this, a ceremonial coronation (Pattabhishek) is conducted. Mamta followed these steps by taking a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Triveni Sangam and performing her Pind Daan. By doing so, she symbolically bid farewell to her identity as Mamta Kulkarni and embraced her new spiritual persona as Shri Yamai Mamtanand Giri.
Why Did Mamta Choose the Kinnar Akhara?
Many are surprised by Mamta’s sudden transformation and wonder why she chose the Kinnar Akhara. Traditionally, to become a Mahamandaleshwar, one must undergo extensive training, embrace detachment from worldly life, and dedicate themselves to spiritual pursuits over an extended period. This includes renouncing familial ties and acquiring deep knowledge of Vedas and Puranas.
However, the Kinnar Akhara stands apart from the 13 principal Akharas of Sanatan Dharma. It allows individuals to lead a materialistic life even after becoming an ascetic. The Kinnar Akhara does not require complete renunciation of worldly or familial relationships, which makes it unique. This flexibility is one of the reasons why Mamta opted for this Akhara, enabling her to lead a spiritual life while retaining elements of her previous lifestyle.
Controversies Surrounding Mamta’s Past
Mamta’s spiritual transformation comes as a surprise, given her tumultuous past filled with controversies. Many question how someone with such a history could ascend to the position of Mahamandaleshwar.
Allegations of Drug Trafficking
In 2013, Mamta reportedly left the film industry and married alleged drug lord Vicky Goswami in Dubai. Goswami was convicted in Dubai for drug trafficking and served a 12-year sentence. While Mamta has consistently denied any involvement in his illegal activities, her name surfaced in a drug trafficking case in 2016. The Mumbai Police issued an arrest warrant against her, linking her to a company accused of trafficking drugs worth ₹80 lakh. Mamta claimed to have been in love with Goswami, which kept her away from India for nearly two decades, from 2000 to 2024.
Underworld Connections
Even during her acting career, Mamta was accused of having connections with the underworld. It was alleged that she used her influence to secure film projects, even getting directors coerced by underworld figures.
Controversial Photoshoot
One of Mamta’s most infamous moments was her topless photoshoot for a magazine in 1993. The bold move sparked nationwide outrage and cemented her reputation as a controversial figure. This history of controversies has led many to question her transformation into a spiritual leader.
The Surprising Path to Spirituality
Mamta’s sudden turn to spirituality has left many intrigued and skeptical. However, her association with the Kinnar Akhara sheds light on her choice. Unlike traditional Akharas, the Kinnar Akhara allows its members to embrace spirituality without completely renouncing worldly life. This unique aspect provides a bridge between asceticism and materialism, making it a more accessible path for individuals like Mamta, who seek spiritual solace without severing ties with their past.
By joining the Kinnar Akhara, Mamta aims to lead a spiritual life while continuing to navigate the complexities of her existence. As Shri Yamai Mamtanand Giri, she has embarked on a new journey, one that combines elements of her past with her aspirations for a more spiritual future. Only time will tell how her role as Mahamandaleshwar will unfold and whether she will leave a lasting impact on the spiritual community.
