Key Points:
- Mamta Kulkarni’s Controversial Appointment: Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni was appointed Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhara during Maha Kumbh 2025 on January 24, sparking widespread opposition.
- Infighting and Resignation: Internal disputes and criticism over her past led to her resignation on February 10, but her guru, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, refused to accept it.
- Allegations and Opposition: Critics cited Kulkarni’s alleged underworld connections and questioned the inclusion of a cisgender woman in a transgender-focused religious order.
- Leadership Crisis: The controversy has deepened divisions within Kinnar Akhara, with its founder, Rishi Ajay Das, expelling both Kulkarni and Tripathi.
Prayagraj: On January 24, 2025, Mamta Kulkarni, a former Bollywood actress who left the limelight decades ago to embrace spirituality, was anointed as Mahamandaleshwar (a high-ranking religious leader) of Kinnar Akhara during the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. The appointment was officiated by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, a prominent transgender rights activist. Kulkarni was given the spiritual name “Yamai Mamta Nand Giri,” marking her elevation to one of the most prestigious positions in the Akhara.
However, her appointment triggered immediate backlash from several seers and religious leaders. Critics questioned her eligibility for the role, citing her controversial past, including alleged underworld links and legal troubles. Prominent voices like Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa argued that appointing a cisgender woman contradicted the Akhara’s foundational purpose of empowering the transgender community.
Infighting and Resignation
The controversy escalated as internal disputes within Kinnar Akhara came to light. Rishi Ajay Das, who claims to be the founder of Kinnar Akhara, openly opposed Kulkarni’s appointment and accused Tripathi of undermining the Akhara’s principles by conferring such a title on someone with a questionable background. He even announced the removal of both Kulkarni and Tripathi from their respective roles.
Amid mounting criticism and infighting, Mamta Kulkarni announced her resignation on February 10 via a video message. She expressed disappointment over the internal disputes and stated that her 25 years of penance were being dismissed because of her past. “I left the film industry 25 years ago to embrace spirituality. Yet today, my past is being used against me,” she said.
Kulkarni also alleged financial irregularities within the Akhara. She claimed she was asked to pay ₹2 lakh for her position but had to rely on others for financial support.
Tripathi Refuses Resignation
Despite Kulkarni stepping down, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi refused to accept her resignation, asserting that Mamta Kulkarni “was, is, and will remain” Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhara. Tripathi defended Kulkarni’s appointment by stating that all legal cases against her had been dismissed and accused Ajay Das of acting out of personal vendetta.
Tripathi also highlighted that Ajay Das had been expelled from Kinnar Akhara in 2017 for financial misconduct during the Ujjain Kumbh Mela.
Broader Implications
The controversy has raised questions about inclusivity within religious organizations like Kinnar Akhara. Critics argue that appointing a cisgender woman undermines the Akhara’s mission to uplift transgender individuals. Others see this as an attempt to modernize and expand the scope of traditional religious orders.
Meanwhile, tensions within Kinnar Akhara continue to grow. A press briefing has been scheduled to address leadership disputes and clarify future steps.
- Past Controversies: Critics cited her alleged connections with underworld figures and involvement in drug-related cases.
- Violation of Traditions: Seers argued that appointing a cisgender woman contradicted the Akhara’s principles.
- Financial Irregularities: Kulkarni claimed she was asked for ₹2 lakh for her position.
What Lies Ahead?
The leadership crisis within Kinnar Akhara has exposed deep divisions over its direction and values. As debates over inclusivity versus tradition continue, Mamta Kulkarni’s journey highlights broader challenges faced by religious institutions in balancing modernity with their foundational principles.
