Mamta Kulkarni resigns as Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhada
What's the story
Former Bollywood actor Mamta Kulkarni has officially resigned as Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhada.
The actor announced the same on Monday via a video shared on social media platforms.
"I am resigning from the post of Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhada," she said in the clip. She further declared, "I have been a sadhvi (a saint) since my childhood and I'll continue to be so."
Controversy details
Kulkarni's resignation followed dispute over her appointment
Kulkarni's resignation comes after a dispute between Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi and the founder of Kinnar Akhara, Rishi Ajay Das.
The dispute was over Kulkarni's appointment as Mahamandaleshwar.
Das said Kulkarni's induction was done without his consent and was against Sanatana Dharma. Reportedly, Das and Tripathi were at loggerheads over the matter, with the former threatening to remove Tripathi from their post.
In retaliation, Tripathi alleged Das didn't have the authority to do so.
Spiritual path
Kulkarni's spiritual journey and criticism from Baba Ramdev
Kulkarni, who has appeared in Bollywood films such as Karan Arjun and Baazi, started her spiritual journey by giving up her worldly life.
She took on a new identity as "Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri" and became Mahamandleshwar on January 24 at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Her appointment, however, was slammed by Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev who argued sainthood can't be achieved "in a single day."
Criticism
'Some people associate vulgarity, intoxication...in the name of Kumbh'
Last month, Ramdev had openly criticized Kulkarni's anointment.
"The great Kumbh festival of Sanatana, where our roots are connected, is a grand celebration. This is a sacred festival Some people associate vulgarity, intoxication, and inappropriate behavior in the name of Kumbh—this is not the true essence of the Maha Kumbh."
"Some individuals who were indulged in worldly pleasures just yesterday suddenly become saints or even attain titles like Mahamandaleshwar in a single day," she added.