Prayagraj: Yoga guru Ramdev has raised eyebrows over Mamta Kulkarni’s recent anointment as the Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhara at the ongoing Maha Kumbh. In a pointed remark, Ramdev questioned the speed with which Kulkarni transitioned from a life of “worldly pleasures” to a spiritual title.
Speaking about the spiritual significance of the Maha Kumbh, Ramdev emphasized that the festival should remain a sacred celebration and not be associated with “vulgarity, intoxication, and inappropriate behavior.” He remarked, “Some individuals, who were indulged in worldly pleasures just yesterday, suddenly become saints or even attain titles like Mahamandleshwar in a single day. This is not the true essence of the Maha Kumbh.”
Mamta Kulkarni, the 52-year-old former actor, had recently assumed the title of ‘Mai Mamta Nand Giri’ after taking ‘sanyas’ at the Kinnar Akhara on January 24. Her elevation to the title of Mahamandleshwar has been met with opposition from several saints, who have questioned the legitimacy of her rapid rise within the religious community.
Kulkarni, who once had a successful film career, was given the new spiritual name and title by the Kinnar Akhara’s Mahamandaleshwar, Kaushalya Nand Giri, also known as Tina Maa. According to reports, Kulkarni performed her own ‘Pind Daan’ on the banks of the River Ganga during the Kumbh, marking a symbolic gesture of spiritual rebirth.
Her appointment as Mahamandleshwar has sparked a debate within the religious and spiritual communities, as many feel the title is a significant honor that should be earned through years of spiritual service.
