In a recent turn of events, Kinnar Akhara has taken the decision to expel former Bollywood actor Mamta Kulkarni due to her critical comments about Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand. Kulkarni's remarks stemmed from the Megha Mela incident where she expressed discontent over the actions of Shankaracharya, implying that his stubbornness resulted in his disciples being subjected to violence. She questioned the legitimacy of his appointment as Shankaracharya and criticized his insistence on a palanquin ride amidst a large gathering, suggesting that he should have walked instead.
The controversy arose on January 18 when the Shankaracharya's palanquin was halted during the Mela at Sangam in Prayagraj, leading to a confrontation between his followers and the authorities. The administration cited the area as a no-vehicle zone, justifying their decision to prevent the seer's palanquin from entering. Swami Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, the Mahamandaleshwar of Kinnar Akhara, officially announced Kulkarni's expulsion, emphasizing the Akhara's stance on avoiding controversies.
