Mamta Kulkarni talks about observing nine days fast for Navratri and having scotch, says "I would consume scotch, but after..."

Did Mamta Kulkarni Drink in Navratri?

Mamta Kulkarni made a notable impact in the film industry in the 1990s, quickly capturing attention with her captivating presence and performances. Over time, she shifted towards a more spiritual lifestyle, stepping away from the spotlight. In a recent appearance, Mamta addressed some of the allegations that have been made against her.

During the Maha Kumbh 2025, the Kinnar Akhara honored Mamta Kulkarni by bestowing upon her the title of Mahamandaleshwar. However, her tenure was short-lived, lasting only seven days. After protests from several prominent Hindu holy men, Kulkarni was removed from the position. This decision sparked significant controversy and brought even more attention to her already complex public image.

Mamta Kulkarni opened up about her journey to becoming a Sadhvi, revealing that she has refrained from watching any adult films for the past 23 years. The actress also shared a lighthearted anecdote about enjoying "2 pegs" during Navratri, offering a glimpse into her more relaxed, personal side.

Her candid discussion added another layer to her transformation from a Bollywood star to a spiritual seeker, reflecting both her deep spiritual commitment and her occasional indulgences.

When questioned about fasting during Navratri while also having two pegs at the Taj Hotel in the evening, Mamta Kulkarni responded, “When I was in Bollywood, my Guru came into my life in 1997."

The host then directly inquired about reports suggesting that Kulkarni would meditate and fast during Navratri, but in the evening, she would visit the Taj Hotel and drink two pegs of scotch.

To this, Mamta Kulkarni responded by acknowledging the reports, explaining that she balanced her spiritual practices with her personal choices, and emphasized that life is about finding a balance between different aspects.

She mentioned, "During my time in Bollywood, my life revolved around a strict routine. Whenever I went for shooting, I would carry three bags. One contained my clothes, while the other held my portable temple. This temple, set up on a table in my room, was where I would perform puja before leaving for work. Only after completing this ritual would I embark on my shooting schedule."

"I used to observe Navratri. This Navratri is a nine-day siddhi. I had taken a vow to fast and perform three havans in the morning, afternoon, and evening. I was only on water for nine days. I performed yagya with 36 kilos of sandalwood." She continued.

Mamta also mentioned, "My designer, who was from Bollywood then, said, ‘Mamta, what are you doing? You have become too serious. Get up, nine days are enough, let’s go now.’ We then visited the Taj; one or two Navratris went by in this manner. I would consume scotch, but after just two pegs, I had to rush to the washroom. It felt as though all the alcohol had instantly gone to my head. The nine days of penance, with their lack of sustenance, were taking a toll. My insides felt as if they were burning. I ended up sitting in the washroom for 40 minutes,"

"See, all this happened in 1996-97. For two years, my guru saw that Bollywood would not let me stay on this path for long. That is why he chose a place of penance for me where no one would meet me for 12 years." She concluded.

Despite Mamta's shift towards spirituality, she remains a subject of ongoing controversy.

Her career and personal life have been surrounded by various scandals, including allegations that have kept her in the media spotlight. Kulkarni's complex journey from a film star to a spiritual seeker has continued to intrigue both fans and critics alike, with her legacy still stirring debates within the public and media.

Mamta Kulkarni’s expulsion arose from a dispute between the founder of Kinnar Akhara, Ajay Das, and Acharya Mahamandleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi. The Akhara was split over their views on Kulkarni's appointment, leading to division and ultimately her removal from the position.

The clash intensified, fueling more controversy within the Akhara and ultimately resulting in the expulsion of both Laxmi Narayan Tripathi and Mamta Kulkarni.

Mamta Kulkarni, however, clarified that she never sought the title of Mahamandaleshwar but accepted the role due to pressure from Acharya Laxmi Narayan Tripathi of Kinnar Akhara.