Former actress Mamata Kulkarni expelled from Mahamandaleshwar Patta of Kinnar Akhara

Former Bollywood actress-turned-nun Mamata Kulkarni has been expelled from the Mahamandaleshwar Patta of Kinnar Akhara, sparking fresh controversy at the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. The decision, announced by Kinnar Akhara founder Rishi Ajay Das, also led to the expulsion of Mahamandaleshwari Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi, who had initiated Kulkarni into the monastic order.

Also read: Former actor Mamta Kulkarni becomes Mahamandleshwar of Kinnar Akhara at Mahakumbh 2025

The controversy erupted after Kulkarni’s appointment as Mahamandaleshwari, which reportedly led to internal disputes within the Kinnar Akhara. Ajay Das, citing alleged violations, dismissed both Kulkarni and Tripathi from their roles. However, Tripathi has strongly condemned the decision, stating that Ajay Das lacks the authority to expel them and asserting that Kulkarni’s initiation was conducted transparently.

Kulkarni, who had been at the Mahakumbh Mela for the past 20 days, had taken monastic vows under Tripathi’s guidance, adopting the name ‘Mai Mamata Nandagiri.’ She had previously been associated with the Juna Akhara before aligning with the Kinnar Akhara in recent months.

With tensions escalating, the Kinnar Akhara is expected to hold a press conference to address the controversy. The sudden expulsion has intensified debates over power struggles within religious sects, highlighting divisions in the spiritual community. Further developments are awaited as the expelled members challenge the decision.