‘What started as a profound path revealed ugly realities,’ Kulkarni shared. ‘Self-anointed gurus roam everywhere, devoid of real wisdom or inner light. Saints aren’t made by costumes or declarations.’

She invoked Vedic wisdom to underscore her point. Recalling Shvetaketu’s story—versed in all Vedas yet ignorant of the self—she lamented modern parallels. ‘True enlightenment transcends rote learning; it’s about inner awakening.’

Kulkarni’s journey exposed rampant hypocrisy: ‘I’ve met few genuine saints; most chase prestige over purity.’ The constant creation of new Mahamandaleshwars has diluted the title’s gravity, turning it into comedy. She targeted akhara founder Rishi Ajay Das’s circle, decrying ignorant preachers who belittle dance and music, ignoring divine icons like Nataraja Shiva and Krishna’s playful dances.

Facing an internal tug, Kulkarni is seriously weighing resignation. ‘Surrounded by imposters, why cling to a hollow title? Sincerity demands no fanfare—only tapasya, humility, and authenticity.’ This development ignites debate on spiritual credential inflation, urging a purge of pretense in India’s guru culture.