Mamta Kulkarni Removed from Kinnar Akhara, Accused of Disrespecting Shankaracharya
Decision welcomed by Computer Baba; Akhara distances itself from actress after controversial remarks
Prayagraj: The Kinnar Akhara has removed former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni from the post of Mahamandaleshwar following her recent remarks concerning Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand, which were termed disrespectful. The decision was publicly welcomed on Thursday by spiritual leader Computer Baba.
Welcoming the move taken by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Dr. Laxmi Narayan Tripathi of the Kinnar Akhara, Computer Baba said, “This decision is definitely commendable. If Mamta Kulkarni has been removed from the Akhara, it is absolutely right. Our Shankaracharyas are highly respected religious leaders. There are four Shankaracharyas, and Avimukteshwaracharya is one of them. He is like a divine figure. How can anyone make such comments against him? The entire Sanatan saint community strongly condemns this.”
He further stated that Mamta Kulkarni’s remarks against the Shankaracharya were inappropriate and that the Kinnar Akhara acted correctly by removing her, as her statements allegedly misrepresented Sanatan Dharma. He described the action as a very positive step.
The controversy began on January 25, when Mamta Kulkarni questioned the role, conduct, and appointment process of Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand. She also raised objections regarding the need for ceremonial bathing in a palanquin accompanied by a large crowd.
Subsequently, on January 27, Dr. Laxmi Narayan Tripathi clarified that Mamta Kulkarni no longer has any association with the Kinnar Akhara. She stated that Mamta is neither an office-bearer nor a member of the Akhara, and that the organization holds no responsibility for any of her statements.
Later, Mamta Kulkarni announced through Instagram that she had resigned from the Akhara, stating that her resignation would be effective from January 27 and that the decision was taken voluntarily.
It is noteworthy that Mamta Kulkarni was appointed Mahamandaleshwar by the Kinnar Akhara on January 24 during the Mahakumbh 2025, and was also given a new spiritual name. However, her elevation had faced opposition from several saints from the very beginning.
