Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni has rejoined the Kinnar Akhada as Mahamandaleshwar, days after announcing her resignation. In a video statement released on Friday, Kulkarni confirmed her return, stating that Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi had refused to accept her resignation.

Explaining her decision, Kulkarni said she had stepped down in an emotional moment but later chose to continue serving Sanatan Dharma under her guru’s guidance. “Two days ago, some people made false allegations against my guru, Dr. Acharya Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi. In response, I resigned in a moment of emotion. However, my guru did not accept my resignation. The offerings I presented upon becoming a Mahamandaleshwar, including the royal umbrella, staff, and other sacred items, will remain dedicated to the Akhada. I am grateful to my guru for reinstating me. Moving forward, I dedicate my life to Kinnar Akhada and Sanatan Dharma,” she said.

Kulkarni’s Resignation and Controversy

On February 10, Mamta Kulkarni resigned from her post as Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada. In her resignation message, she criticized those opposing her appointment and spoke about her spiritual journey since leaving Bollywood. She stated that stepping down was based on her Goddess’s command.

“I am resigning from my post of Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada. I have been a ‘sadhvi’ for the last 25 years, and I will remain one,” she said in a video message.

Kulkarni also addressed allegations that she had paid money for the position. She denied the claims, stating that while she was asked for money before the ceremony, she refused, saying she did not have any.

Appointment as Mahamandaleshwar

Kulkarni, 52, was officially anointed as Mahamandaleshwar on January 24 in the presence of Juna Akhara’s Mahamandaleshwar Swami Mahendranand Giri, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi, and other Kinnar Mahamandaleshwars. She was given the new name Yamai Mamta Nand Giri, along with five others who also received the Mahamandaleshwar title.

Opposition Within the Akhada

Meanwhile, opposition to Kulkarni’s appointment continues. Ajay Das announced at a press conference that Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi was being removed from the position of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada. “She disregarded the principles of Sanatan Dharma and national interest by appointing Mamta Kulkarni, who has been accused in a case of sedition, as a Mahamandaleshwar without following the Akhada’s traditions,” he stated.