Viral video: Amber-eyed garland seller 'Mona Lisa' faces harassment at Maha Kumbh Mela

Dubai: Monalisa Bhonsle, a garland seller whose striking amber eyes and captivating smile turned her into an internet sensation during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has reportedly returned home after facing harassment.

The young vendor, with her dusky complexion and calm demeanor, caught the attention of a content creator and went viral after a video of her was shared online, with many dubbing her the 'Mona Lisa'. However, the sudden fame brought unwanted attention.

According to media reports, she was “tortured” by a group of men and struggled to cope with the constant demands for selfies and videos.

A viral video circulating online shows Monalisa, dressed in a red salwar, trying to escape a crowd as her family members intervene to shield her. At one point, she sits down, covering her face with a dupatta, visibly distressed. Social media users expressed outrage, with many criticising the public for invading her privacy and disrupting her livelihood.

Reports suggest that her father, concerned for her safety, sent her home, stating that the Maha Kumbh Mela was no longer a safe environment for her to earn a living. However, conflicting accounts have emerged, with her grandfather reportedly denying these claims, stating that she remains at the mela.

“She is very upset in Prayagraj. She is not able to work. Everyone keeps following her. They come with cameras and disturb her business,” ABP quoted her grandfather, a resident of Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh.

Monalisa’s rise to fame mirrors the phenomenon of overnight internet stardom but highlights its darker side. Ever since her video went viral, hordes of onlookers and influencers have swarmed her, making it difficult for her to sell her rudraksha garlands.

Expressing her fears, Monalisa reportedly said, “I am scared. No one is here. Anyone can harm me. There is no electricity. Still, people forcefully entered the tent." She revealed that her brother confronted some individuals taking her photos, leading to a scuffle where he was attacked by nine men.

The situation has sparked widespread concern over the impact of viral fame, with many calling for greater respect for personal boundaries.

Social media users have likened Monalisa’s situation to that of other viral sensations, such as the Pakistani chaiwala of 2016, whose unexpected fame drastically changed their lives.

One user commented, “Fame can be dangerous. Mona Lisa at the Mahakumbh Mela is an example. Vultures are circling her to bask in her glory, to get a share of that pie.”

Despite the adoration, Mona Lisa’s story is a poignant reminder that viral success often comes at a personal cost, threatening both safety and livelihood in the process.

Unexpected celebrities shine at Maha Kumbh Mela

While the garland seller's beauty steals the spotlight, other captivating figures, such as "IIT Baba"—an aerospace engineer turned ascetic—and sadhvi Harsha Richaria, add to the diverse allure of the Maha Kumbh Mela.

"I’m from Haryana, started at IIT, switched from engineering to arts, and kept evolving until I found the ultimate truth," Baba Abhay Singh told ANI, reflecting on his spiritual journey.

As the Mela unfolds, Prayagraj continues to blend spirituality, culture, and unexpected moments of fame.