Mamta Kulkarni reinstated as Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhada days after resignation: 'Some people made false allegations against my guru'

In a surprising twist, Mamta Kulkarni has been reinstated as Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada just three days after announcing her resignation. The former actress released a video statement confirming her return, following opposition to her departure from certain factions within the religious order.
According to reports, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi of the Kinnar Akhada had refused to accept Mamta’s resignation. In her statement, Mamta, now known as Shri Yamai Mamta Nand Giri, reaffirmed her commitment to Sanatan Dharma and the Akhada.
"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 stated in the video.

Mamta had embraced sanyas at the Mahakumbh last month, where she also performed her own Pind Daan, a Hindu ritual for paying homage to ancestors. She was later appointed Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada, a religious order founded by transgender devotees under the Juna Akhara.
The controversy surrounding her resignation stemmed from internal conflicts within the Akhada. Reports suggest that her removal was linked to a power struggle between founder Ajay Das and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi, leading to both Mamta and Tripathi being expelled. In an interview with News24, Tripathi clarified that Mamta would continue to hold her title and that her resignation would not be accepted.

Speaking to PTI, Mahamandaleshwar Kaushalya Nand Giri confirmed that Mamta’s resignation was a result of disagreements between the Kinnar Akhada and other saints over her appointment. However, Mamta later clarified that she never actively sought the position and had accepted it under pressure.