Mamta Kulkarni Discusses Her Long Absence from India in an Exclusive Interview (IANS)

Mumbai, Dec 19 (NationPress) Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni, who has recently returned to India after several years, revealed the motivations behind her prolonged absence from the country and the film industry. In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Mamta addressed multiple topics including Bollywood, politics, her commitment to celibacy, her spiritual journey, and her views on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Here’s the complete interview:

IANS: What prompted your departure from India and your absence for 24 years?

Mamta Kulkarni: My departure from India was driven by my spiritual pursuits. In 1996, I became deeply interested in spirituality after meeting Guru Gagan Giri Maharaj. His influence led me to begin my spiritual journey. While Bollywood offered me recognition and fame, I ultimately chose to leave the industry. From 2000 to 2012, I dedicated myself to spiritual practices, residing in Dubai where I lived in a modest two-bedroom apartment and remained celibate for 12 years.

IANS: How did it feel to be back in Mumbai?

Mamta Kulkarni: As I was approaching Mumbai, I felt an overwhelming wave of emotion. Tears filled my eyes as I recalled the beginnings of my journey in Bollywood, where I gained so much recognition. The changes in Mumbai are striking; there's significant traffic, and the roads are in poor condition. I heard that the BMC's budget is Rs 25,000 crore, yet I see little development. The roads are riddled with potholes, and improvements are necessary, especially since Mumbai is the nation's financial hub. Cleanliness also needs to be prioritized.

IANS: What’s your current perspective on India and Prime Minister Modi?

Mamta Kulkarni: I believe the country is secure under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It's rare to find a leader of his caliber in India. Words can hardly capture my admiration for him; he is deeply committed to the nation and operates with integrity, free from corruption.

IANS: There has been speculation regarding Vicky Goswami. Are you married to him?

Mamta Kulkarni: I met Vicky Goswami in 1996, and he was arrested in a drug-related case in 1997, serving 12 years in prison. During that time, he reached out to me, and we met once. My focus remained on spirituality. I attended the Kumbh Mela in 2012 to take a sacred bath, and subsequently, Vicky moved to Kenya. I am not married to him; I maintained my celibacy for 12 years and adhered to a strict diet avoiding onions and garlic. While I had a relationship with Vicky and will always care for him, my spiritual path took precedence, leading to the end of our connection. I also met him in Kenya, but he was later extradited to America due to drug charges. It's been nearly eight years, and that chapter is closed.

IANS: An FIR has been filed against you in a drug case. What’s your response?

Mamta Kulkarni: What else could I have wanted? I had ten film offers, three homes, and two cars. I chose to exit Bollywood. I suspect the drug case against me is baseless, possibly linked to Vicky or aimed at garnering publicity. I was labeled a fugitive, just as he was for a time. Justice has a way of revealing the truth; the police have yet to find any evidence against me.

IANS: Are you planning to visit the Ram temple in Ayodhya?

Mamta Kulkarni: I was thrilled with the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. It’s a historical site that was once a temple, then demolished, and now reinstated. I definitely plan to visit Ayodhya and the Ram temple, as well as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. I also intend to participate in the Kumbh and perform two royal baths ('Shahi Snans').

IANS: Will you be making a Bollywood comeback?

Mamta Kulkarni: Presently, I consider myself a monk, with no interest in returning to Bollywood or any other concerns. I've reached a stage in life where re-entering the film industry doesn't appeal to me. My aim is to live a spiritual life and engage in spiritual discussions to connect with others.

IANS: Does the casting couch phenomenon exist in Bollywood?

Mamta Kulkarni: While the casting couch may be a reality, I personally did not encounter any such issues, as I was always accompanied by my mother and secretary. Bollywood's environment was not so dire in my experience, but perhaps confusion has set in, allowing unscrupulous individuals to exploit the situation.

IANS: Will you be staying in India now?

Mamta Kulkarni: I have returned for a few months. I will continue to travel internationally but plan to settle permanently in Mumbai after a few months.