Kinnar Akhara Ousts Former Bollywood Star Mamta Kulkarni Over Shankaracharya Remarks
In a significant development from Prayagraj, the Kinnar Akhara has officially expelled former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni following her public criticism of Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand. The decision comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the seer's actions during the recent Megha Mela at Sangam.
Controversial Comments Lead to Expulsion
Kulkarni, who is also known as Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri within spiritual circles, had openly questioned Avimukteshwaranand's authority and conduct just two days prior to her expulsion. She specifically challenged his appointment as Shankaracharya and criticized his insistence on using a palanquin during the religious gathering when millions of devotees were present.
The former actress argued that the spiritual leader could have easily walked to the bathing area instead of demanding palanquin transport. She emphasized that a true guru should demonstrate responsibility rather than stubbornness in such situations.
Background of the Megha Mela Incident
Kulkarni's comments referenced the events of January 18 when Avimukteshwaranand's palanquin procession was halted by authorities during the Megha Mela at Sangam in Prayagraj. The Shankaracharya was en route to take a Mauni Amavasya dip when the confrontation occurred.
The administration maintained that the area was designated as a no-vehicle zone, making the palanquin procession unauthorized. This led to a physical altercation between police personnel and the seer's disciples, with multiple reports indicating that several followers were beaten during the incident.
Official Announcement from Kinnar Akhara Leadership
Swami Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, the Mahamandaleshwar (divisional leader) of Kinnar Akhara, formally announced Kulkarni's expulsion through a video statement on Tuesday. "After holding a meeting with Akhara officials, it was decided that Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri will not have any connection with Kinnar Akhara," Tripathi declared.
The spiritual leader further explained that the organization wishes to avoid unnecessary controversies. However, Tripathi also criticized the Prayagraj administration's handling of the Megha Mela incident, particularly the alleged beating of Avimukteshwaranand's "batuk" (young Brahmin boys) and the pulling of their sacred threads on Mauni Amavasya day.
Tripathi characterized these actions as an attack on "Sanatan Dharma," highlighting the deep religious sensitivities surrounding the controversy.
Kulkarni's Controversial History with Kinnar Akhara
This is not the first time Mamta Kulkarni has been at the center of controversy within Kinnar Akhara. The organization, which includes women, men, and transgender individuals, previously faced significant backlash when Kulkarni was appointed as Mahamandaleshwar during last year's Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
That appointment triggered widespread debate and criticism from various quarters, making her current expulsion part of an ongoing pattern of contentious relationships between the former actress and the spiritual community.
The expulsion underscores the delicate balance between spiritual authority, public criticism, and organizational discipline within India's diverse religious landscape, particularly in the context of major religious gatherings like those held in Prayagraj.
