Mamta Kulkarni’s Appointment As ‘Mahamandaleshwar’ Leaves Monks Disappointed

Prayagraj: The appointment of former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni as the Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhara has left several monks and pandits miffed.

After transgender Kathavachak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa, Peethadheeshwar Pandit Dhirendra Shastri of Bageshwar Dham has also expressed his displeasure over Mamta’s appointment during the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj.

While taking a holy dip at the Mahakumbh on Sunday, Shastri said that the title of Mahamandaleshwar should be conferred to pious people only. “How can someone be made a saint or Mahamandaleshwar under external influence?” Shastri said, according to a report on Zee News.

He added, “We ourselves have not been able to become Mahamandaleshwar till now.”

Earlier, criticising the actress’ appointment as Mahamandaleshwar, transgender Kathavachak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa told ANI that the Kinnar Akhara has made the decision for “publicity.”

“Mamta Kulkarni has been made Mahamandaleshwar by the Kinnar Akhara for publicity. Society knows her past very well. Suddenly, she arrives in India, participates in the Mahakumbh, and is given the position of Mahamandaleshwar. This needs investigation,” Himangi said while citing the actress’ controversial past, including her involvement in drug cases.

Questioning the consequences of the actress’ appointment, she said “What kind of guru are you offering to Sanatan Dharma?”

Defending herself, Mamta said: “This was the order of Mahadev, Maha Kaali, and my Guru. hey chose this day. I didn’t do anything.”