Former Bollywood star Mamta Kulkarni has stepped into a remarkable new role, a spiritual journey as the Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhara. After nearly 25 years away from India, Kulkarni returned earlier this month to immerse herself in the sacred celebrations. Visuals shared widely online captured her taking a holy dip at the Sangam before performing the traditional Pind Daan ritual. The coronation ceremony on Friday marked her formal induction into the role.

Kulkarni, who had taken sanyaas (renunciation) years ago, performed the Pind Daan ritual at the sacred Sangam before her coronation. Following the ceremony, she was given a new spiritual name — Shri Yamai Mamta Nand Giri.

The Kinnar Akhara, established in 2015, is a unique Hindu religious organisation dedicated to empowering the transgender community and advocating for their equal recognition in spiritual and social domains. The appointment of Kulkarni as Mahamandaleshwar signals the Akhara’s intent to further amplify its message of inclusivity and equality.

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Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan of Kinnar Akhara welcomed Mamta Nand Giri warmly. “She has been in touch with us for the past year and a half,” Laxmi Narayan said. “Her artistic background is not a hindrance, and she is free to use her talents in religious contexts if she chooses,” Laxmi Narayan added.

After returning to India recently, Kulkarni described her experience at the Maha Kumbh as deeply moving. “It is my good fortune to witness this holy event and receive the blessings of saints,” she shared.