Mamta Kulkarni Becomes Sadhvi: Net Worth to Underworld Controversies, 5 Highlights About Her

Former actress Mamta Kulkarni has left her glamorous career behind to embrace spirituality. Recently appointed Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada during the Maha Kumbh.
  • Amit Diwan
  • Editorial
  • Updated - 2025-01-27, 11:29 IST
Mamta Kulkarni controversies

Mamta Kulkarni, once a prominent name in the film industry, has left her glamorous life behind to embrace spirituality. After quitting movies in 2003, she has firmly decided not to return to the silver screen. Recently, Mamta was appointed the Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada during the Maha Kumbh, a role she has described as an "Olympic medal" in her own words. Dressed in saffron robes, with her head covered and a tika adorning her forehead, she looked every bit the saint as she spoke to the media about her new path in life.

Kulkarni's Bollywood began with a small role in the 1992 film ‘Tiranga’, featuring alongside veterans like Raj Kumar and Nana Patekar. Her breakthrough came through films like "Ashaant’, ‘Aashiq Awara’, and ‘Waqt Hamara Hai’ in 1993, setting the stage for her iconic 90s stardom.

Why Did Mamta Kulkarni Leave India?

Mamta Kulkarni’s sudden departure from India in 2000 has long been a topic of speculation. In 2015, her name resurfaced in connection with a major drug trafficking case. Authorities linked her to a ₹2000 crore drug cartel, allegedly operated alongside her husband, Vicky Goswami. Although an FIR was filed against her in 2016, Mamta denied any involvement, and the case did not result in her arrest. In a positive turn, the Bombay High Court recently quashed the FIR, clearing her name and allowing her to return to India without facing legal troubles.

In an Instagram video, Kulkarni shared her profound emotions,"I left India in 2000, and now in 2024, I'm finally back in Bombay, 'Aamchi Mumbai.' It's been 25 years, and I feel so nostalgic."

Describing her arrival, she recounted, "Setting foot at the Mumbai International Airport was an overwhelming experience. I felt deeply emotional, almost unable to express what I was feeling."

5 Controversial Chapters in Mamta Kulkarni's Life

Bollywood's Boldest Photoshoot

In September 1993, Kulkarni created a sensation with a provocative magazine photoshoot. Her topless images shocked the entire film industry, marking a controversial moment in her career.

Underworld Connections

Kulkarni's personal life drew significant attention due to her reported relationship with Chhota Rajan, a prominent underworld figure associated with Dawood Ibrahim.

Drug Trafficking Allegations

In 2015, Kulkarni was linked to a ₹2000 crore drug trafficking case involving her husband, Vicky Goswami. Despite the allegations, she maintained her innocence, "Whatever I owned was earned through my hard work in the Bollywood industry," she stated.

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Legal Battles

An FIR was registered against her in 2016, but she was never arrested. Significantly, the Bombay High Court subsequently quashed the FIR, effectively clearing her name.

Spiritual Transformation

Kulkarni referred to herself as a “Yogini", indicating a profound life perspective shift and spiritual awakening.

Mamta Kulkarni Net Worth

According to several media reports, Mamta Kulkarni's estimated net worth stands at $10 million (approximately ₹85 crores).

Mamta Kulkarni’s return to India after 25 years marks a significant chapter in her personal and professional life.

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