Mamta Kulkarni Embraces Spiritual Life, Renounces Bollywood at Maha Kumbh
Mamta Kulkarni Embraces Spiritual Life, Renounces Bollywood at Maha Kumbh
Mamta Kulkarni, a former Bollywood actress, has returned to Mumbai after 25 years and is now on a spiritual journey at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. On January 24, 2025, she took a major step by renouncing her worldly life and adopting the new name “Mai Mamta Nand Giri,” according to the Uttar Pradesh government.
Kulkarni, 52, embraced a spiritual life at the Kinnar Akhara during the Maha Kumbh, where she was given her new name and underwent a consecration ceremony. She also met Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi and received blessings from him. Later, Mamta took a ceremonial dip in the sacred waters of the Sangam, dressed as a sadhvi.
She shared that she had been on a spiritual path since 2000 and had taken initiation from Guru Shri Chaitanya Gagan Giri at Kupoli Ashram 23 years ago. Speaking to the media, she explained that she chose Laxmi Narayan Tripathi as her ‘pattaguru’ because he embodies the form of Ardhnaareshwar, a symbol of balance between male and female energies.
Mamta also revealed that she was evaluated before being awarded the title of mahamandaleshwar, a spiritual leader, and passed all the tests. She mentioned that this Maha Kumbh is especially sacred because of the unique planetary alignments, which occur only once every 144 years.
When asked about some fans being upset over her decision to leave Bollywood, Mamta expressed acceptance, saying that she follows the will of the Gods. She performed the ‘Pind Daan’ ritual at Sangam and shared her intention to serve Sanatan Dharm.
Mamta, who had previously been associated with Juna Akhara, is now part of Kinnar Akhara. Her spiritual journey has been respected by other seers, and she is set to formally join the Akhara. She has now joined the group of mahamandaleshwars, spiritual leaders who play a significant role in religious and social work.
Becoming a mahamandaleshwar requires years of commitment, spiritual practice, and a strict lifestyle, including chanting and living a life of penance. It is a recognition of deep spiritual dedication and the desire to serve.
