Nupur Alankar left the television industry in 2022 to adopt a different lifestyle and become a monk. She leads a spiritual lifestyle and inspires many people. Nupur has told how her lifestyle is now and how she manages her expenses. From changing her name to Pitambara Maa to her acting journey
Actress Nupur Alankar, a well-known face of popular television serials like Next Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo and Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyaan, made headlines in 2022 by deciding to give up worldly life and embrace spirituality. The actress, who had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, stepped away from the limelight to devote herself entirely to spiritual practice.
PMC bank scam changed thinking
In a conversation with Tele Talk India, Nupur opened up about the life-changing events that led to her retirement. He said that even during his acting days he always maintained a disciplined and spiritual lifestyle, but several personal and financial difficulties ultimately pushed him onto the path of renunciation and devotion.
Nupur recalled that the PMC Bank scam, which left thousands of account holders in financial straits, was a major turning point in her life. He said, “Whatever has happened in my life, you can find it on Google. It all started with the PMC Bank scam, when I had to face the harsh realities of life. After this scam, my mother fell ill and faced financial difficulties for her treatment. The death of my mother and my sister was the last resort.”
These continuous losses and emotional struggles distanced him from worldly concerns. Nupur said, “Even before this, I had become isolated from the world. I had no interest in this worldly life, so I took permission from everyone who was associated with me. They reluctantly agreed, and then I took up the spiritual path.”
Born on November 25, 1972 in Jaipur, India, Nupur Alankar was fond of acting and dancing since childhood. She moved to Mumbai with her family in search of better career opportunities. With time, she became a well-known face on television and starred in popular serials like ‘Shaktimaan’, ‘Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyaan’ and ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’. Despite his success, he felt an inner attraction towards spirituality.
In February 2022, Nupur took sannyasa under the guidance of guru Shambhu Sharan Jha. She adopted the name ‘Pitambara Maa’ symbolizing the goddess of justice. His new life included living in Himalayan caves and ashrams for three years. He adopted a simple lifestyle, meditating daily and connecting with God. His daily routine included eating once a day and begging for alms to overcome his ego.
Nupur’s marriage to TV actor Alankar Srivastava lasted for 20 years, but they separated due to spiritual calling. Despite the separation, Alankar supported their decision. In an interview in 2022, Nupur said, “I didn’t even need to ask. He knew where I was going.” They live separately, without a legal divorce, with mutual respect and good wishes for each other.
Nupur shares her experiences of living in caves with Tele Talk India: “Battled with rat bites and cold in the caves.” Despite these difficulties, he found peace away from material worries. In a 2025 interview with Mumbai Mirror, he spoke about his dedication to God during those years and his return to Mumbai to spiritually guide others.
Legacy of change: Embracing spirituality rather than glamour.
The story of Nupur Alankar emphasizes that fame is temporary. “I don’t miss Mumbai or the industry,” he said. His transformation over four years shows that any person can change by connecting with the divinity within. Her fans admire her courage as she now teaches others to combat negativity through spirituality.
His life is a source of inspiration for those who seek liberation through spirituality amidst the challenges of life. In Braj, he was seen happily begging for alms, embodying his message of devotion as a form of protection in difficult times.