Kinnar Akhara Removes Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi
The Kinnar Akhara has witnessed a major controversy after actress Mamta Kulkarni was granted the title of Mahamandaleshwar. Following strong opposition within the akhara, its founder Rishi Ajay Das took a decisive step by removing Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi from her position. Additionally, Mamta Kulkarni was also stripped of her newly acquired title.
The decision has sparked a heated debate, with Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi dismissing the action as illegitimate, questioning Ajay Das’ authority in the matter. She stated that Ajay Das had already been expelled from the Kinnar Akhara and therefore had no right to make such decisions.
Internal Conflict in Kinnar Akhara Over Mamta Kulkarni’s Appointment
The controversy began when actress Mamta Kulkarni was named Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhara. This decision faced immediate backlash from within the akhara, leading to a conflict between founder Rishi Ajay Das and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi. The disagreement escalated, culminating in Ajay Das removing both Tripathi and Kulkarni from their respective positions.
In response, Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi strongly opposed the decision, stating that Ajay Das had no authority to take such action. “Ajay Das has already been expelled from the Kinnar Akhara, so how can he remove me from my position?” she argued.
The Kinnar Akhara is expected to address the media regarding this issue in a press conference scheduled for Friday.
Ajay Das Issues Official Statement
Rishi Ajay Das released an official letter justifying his decision, stating that Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi was appointed as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar in 2015-16 during the Ujjain Mahakumbh. However, he alleged that she had deviated from the original purpose of her appointment, leading to her removal.
He further claimed that in 2019, Tripathi entered into an unauthorized agreement with the Juna Akhara without his approval. Calling it an act of deception, he labeled the agreement unethical and legally invalid.
Ajay Das also criticized the appointment of Mamta Kulkarni, arguing that her association with the film industry tarnishes the image of Sanatan Dharma. “This move has compelled me to take action against Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi,” he said.
Kinnar Akhara Appoints Four New Mahamandaleshwars
Despite the ongoing dispute, the Kinnar Akhara announced the appointment of four new Mahamandaleshwars and four Shri Mahants on Thursday. The ceremonies were conducted under the leadership of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi before her removal.
The newly appointed Mahamandaleshwars are:
- Shankaranand Giri (Maharashtra)
- Swaroopa Bharti (Rajasthan)
- Yashodhanand Giri
- Narayani Nand Giri (Pune)
Additionally, the following individuals were named Shri Mahants:
- Bhairavi Nand Giri (Delhi)
- Saraswati Nand Giri
- Divyani Nand Giri (Delhi)
- Harihar Nand Giri
Several prominent figures, including Juna Akhara’s Mahamandaleshwar Gargacharya Muchkund, Peethadheeshwar Swami Mahendranand Giri, and other spiritual leaders, attended the ceremony.
What’s Next for Kinnar Akhara?
The expulsion of Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi and Mamta Kulkarni has intensified internal disputes within the Kinnar Akhara. With both factions claiming legitimacy, the issue is far from over. The upcoming press conference may shed more light on the controversy and reveal the future course of action for the akhara.
As the Mahakumbh approaches, all eyes are on the Kinnar Akhara, waiting to see how this power struggle unfolds.
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