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Mamta Kulkarni, a renowned actress of the 1990s, has embarked on a profound spiritual journey. She has renounced the glamour and glitz of the entertainment industry, embracing a new identity as 'Mai Mamta Nand Giri.' As part of her spiritual journey, Kulkarni has been honoured with the title of Mahamandaleshwar. 

Mamta Kulkarni performed her own Pind Daan, a ceremony that signifies the renunciation of worldly ties. The former actress’s spiritual journey is closely associated with the Kinnar Akhara, a unique spiritual order established by eunuchs. The Kinnar Akhara functions under the umbrella of the Juna Akhara, one of the largest and most prominent Akharas in Hinduism.

From her early days as a Bollywood actress to her current spiritual pursuits, Mamta Kulkarni's life has been a fascinating tale of transformation, self-discovery, and growth. Here is everything you need to know:

Was Mamta Kulkarni Married?

Mamta Kulkarni has always maintained a sense of mystery around her personal life, particularly when it comes to her marital status. Despite never tying the knot, her name has been consistently linked to Vicky Goswami, with numerous reports over the years speculating about their alleged romantic relationship and some even claiming that the two had secretly gotten married.

However, later in a conversation with India Times, Kulkarni dismissed all the rumours, stating, “People should be more mindful about speaking negatively about someone they know little to nothing about. For instance, rumors in the tabloids about Mamta Kulkarni being married to Vicky Goswami are completely untrue - I'm not married to anyone because I've never had the time for that.”

“I sincerely request people to stop using titles like 'husband' or 'wife' in connection with me. I don't know what else to say about these baseless rumors. Some suggest I should pursue legal action or send notices, but I have no intention of doing that,” she further added.

Mamta Kulkarni Controversy

Mamta Kulkarni was accused in 2016 of involvement in a ₹2000 crore international drug racket. The Thane Police alleged that she, along with her partner Vicky Goswami, supplied ephedrine for the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine. The accusations stemmed from a meeting in Kenya, where Kulkarni and Goswami allegedly discussed the drug operation. 

The police issued a notice declaring them "proclaimed offenders" and ordered the attachment of their properties. However, in August 2024, the Bombay High Court quashed the case, deeming the proceedings "manifestly frivolous and vexatious." The court found insufficient evidence to sustain charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Mamta Kulkarni Career

Mamta Kulkarni appeared in several commercially successful Hindi films, including Waqt Hamara Hai, Krantiveer and Karan Arjun. She won the 1994 Filmfare Award for Lux New Face of the Year for her performance in Aashiq Awara. Kulkarni left the film industry after her appearance in Kabhie Tum Kabhie Hum.

Why Did Mamta Kulkarni Leave Acting?

In a conversation with IANS, Mamta said, “"The reason for me leaving India was spirituality. In 1996, I got inclined towards spirituality and during that time I met Guru Gagan Giri Maharaj. After his arrival, my interest in spirituality increased following which my penance started. However, I believe that Bollywood gave me a name and also fame. After this, I quit Bollywood too.”

“From the year 2000 to 2012, I kept doing penance. I was in Dubai for many years, where I lived in a two-bedroom flat and remained celibate for 12 years,” she further added.

Mamta Kulkarni Takes Sanyas

Mamta Kulkarni has embarked on a profound spiritual journey, marking a significant departure from her glamorous past. The actress has officially taken 'sanyaas', a sacred vow of renunciation and has been initiated as a Sadhvi. This transformative step came during her visit to Kinnar Akhara in Mahakumbh on Friday morning.

A video of Mamta has been circulating on social media. In the video, she is seen clad in a saffron-colored outfit, reminiscent of a Hindu monk, signifying her complete surrender to the spiritual path. As she embarks on this new journey, Mamta Kulkarni has left behind the glamour of Bollywood, seeking a deeper connection.