For the first time in India, the Kinnar community is planning to appoint its own Shankaracharya, a significant move aimed at addressing growing concerns regarding conversion and the challenges faced by their community. The founder of the Kinnar Akhada, Rishi Ajay Das, announced this initiative, revealing that on February 15 during the Mahashivratri festival, the community will also appoint various religious leaders including Mahamandleshwars and Mahants. This event, which will take place in Bhopal's Lalghati area, aims to bolster the Kinnar identity within Hinduism amidst societal pressures.

Ajay Das, who holds a postgraduate degree in science, highlighted that around 250 transgender individuals will return to Hinduism during this event, which he deems a necessary step to combat what he describes as coercive efforts by 'Jihadi' elements forcing Kinnar individuals into Islam. The initiative not only seeks to strengthen the Kinnar community's religious identity but also aims to counter a perceived threat to their cultural heritage in the face of rising conversion rates.

The formation of the Kinnar Akhada in 2016 during the Ujjain Kumbh Mela marked a significant moment for the transgender community in India, aiming to provide them with a platform and identity within traditional religious frameworks. This upcoming event is expected to further solidify their presence and voice within Hindu society, as they assert their rights and reclaim their religious identity amid ongoing societal challenges.