Sat Jan 25 13:51:35 UTC 2025: ## Bollywood Actress’ Appointment as Spiritual Leader Sparks Controversy

**Prayagraj, India** – The appointment of former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni as a Mahamandleshwar (a high-ranking spiritual leader) within the Kinnar Akhada at the Maha Kumbh Mela has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Transgender Kathavackak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa has publicly questioned the decision, citing Kulkarni’s past legal troubles, including alleged involvement in drug cases.

Sakhi Maa, speaking to ANI, expressed concerns about the credibility of the appointment, stating that Kulkarni’s past is well-known and warrants investigation. She questioned the ethics of bestowing such a high spiritual title on someone with a controversial history, arguing it sets a poor example for Sanatan Dharma.

The Kinnar Akhada, however, defended the appointment. Acharya Mahamandleshwar Laxmi Narayan explained that Kulkarni has been involved with the Akhada for the past 18 months and that the appointment, under the name Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri, followed established rituals. Narayan stated that Kulkarni is free to express her devotion through any means.

Kulkarni herself, who achieved fame in the 1990s with roles alongside Bollywood A-listers like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, attributed her spiritual transition to divine guidance and the instruction of her guru. She performed the ‘pind daan’ ritual at Sangham Ghat in Prayagraj on Friday.

The clash of opinions highlights a significant divide over the appropriateness of conferring high spiritual status on individuals with a public profile marked by past controversies. The incident continues to generate heated debate within religious and secular circles alike.

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