Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao and actress Patralekhaa undertook the spiritual journey to the Maha Kumbh in 2025, joining a long list of famous personalities. Their visit was marked by participation in ceremonies and taking a dip in the holy waters of the Triveni Sangam, but it was meeting Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Dr. Swami Laxmi Narayan Tripathi at the Kinnar Akhara that gave their trip profound significance. As a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, Swami Laxmi Narayan Tripathi approached Rajkummar with a heartfelt request during their conversation.
She emphasized the power of cinema to change perceptions and raise awareness, urging the actor to create more films focused on the LGBTQ community. Dr. Laxmi Narayan Tripathi highlighted the critical importance of ongoing media representation of LGBTQIA+ stories and praised Rajkummar for his previous roles in films that brought such narratives to the forefront. On Instagram, she shared a photo of their discussion, stating, “During Mahakumbh 2025, @rajkummar_rao and @patralekhaa visited Kinnar Akhara to meet Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Dr. Swami Laxmi Narayan Tripathi. Laxmi Ji praised Rajkummar Rao for his outstanding work in Bollywood, especially his film that highlights LGBTQIA+ stories. She emphasized the need for more films that represent the LGBTQIA+ community, as cinema has the power to create awareness and bring positive change. Representation matters, and storytelling can shape a more inclusive world!”
In addition to their significant encounter, Patralekhaa and Rajkummar Rao visited Parmarth Niketan, where they met with Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji. Rajkummar Rao shared his experience with ANI, stating, “This place has a great atmosphere… My life was transformed by my most recent trip to Maha Kumbh with my spouse.”
The call for Rajkummar Rao to take on more LGBTQ-focused projects reflects a vital push for representation in Bollywood, as the momentum for inclusive storytelling gains strength. This could pave the way for meaningful dialogues and a more accepting society, underscoring the importance of visibility for marginalized communities.
