In the midst of the spiritual grandeur of the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, an event steeped in centuries of tradition and faith, a simple garland seller named Monalisa Bhonsle became an unintended internet sensation. Known for her captivating amber eyes, sharp features, and dusky complexion, Monalisa was likened to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” with social media showering her with adoration and attention. However, what started as a moment of admiration quickly turned into a troubling story of objectification and exploitation, shedding light on the darker side of online fame.

Who is Monalisa Bhonsle?

Monalisa Bhonsle hails from Indore, a city known for its vibrant markets and industrious people. She accompanied her father to the Mahakumbh Mela, selling garlands made from fresh flowers to pilgrims who sought blessings at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three sacred rivers. Her modest stall, once a humble fixture in the sprawling fair, became the center of a social media storm after a video featuring her went viral.

In the video, Monalisa’s natural beauty and infectious smile stood out, garnering widespread praise. Comments likened her to a modern-day “Mona Lisa,” celebrating her charm and elegance. But what seemed like a heartwarming story of an ordinary woman’s moment in the spotlight soon spiraled into a cautionary tale about the perils of unsolicited online attention.

Suma Harris, a fashion entrepreneur, aptly summarized the situation: “Social media has a tendency to turn ordinary moments into spectacles. What started as simple appreciation quickly became a movement that disrupted her business. Monalisa ceased to exist as a person and instead became a mere ‘aesthetic’ for consumption.”

Her once-bustling garland stall transformed into a stage for selfies and videos. Throngs of visitors came, not for her garlands, but to catch a glimpse of her or record her for their own social media feeds. This overwhelming attention not only disrupted her work but also brought about a significant decline in sales, as her stall’s primary purpose was overshadowed by the frenzy of gawking onlookers.

The Unwanted Attention

Social media’s spotlight came with a heavy price. Monalisa’s Instagram account, tagged in numerous viral posts, saw a surge in followers. However, the comments section painted a grim picture, with many leaving objectifying and inappropriate remarks. What could have been a moment of empowerment turned into a situation where Monalisa’s dignity and personal space were compromised.

Visitors began arriving at the Mahakumbh Mela specifically to see her, turning her daily routine into a spectacle. Camera flashes replaced the serenity of prayer beads and garlands, and her livelihood became a backdrop for others’ social media moments. Her family, deeply concerned about her safety and the adverse impact on their business, decided to send her back to Indore to avoid further harm.

Manisha Chordia, a former member of the Tamil Nadu Women’s Commission, highlighted a critical issue: “The internet doesn’t pause to ask if the woman receiving the praise even wants the attention. For Monalisa, the ‘Mona Lisa’ comparison might seem flattering at first glance, but it comes at the cost of her safety and peace. This is a form of digital harassment disguised as admiration.”

Social media’s obsession with aesthetics often overlooks the humanity of its subjects. For Monalisa, being thrust into the spotlight was not a choice but an imposition. Unlike influencers who curate their image and content for fame, Monalisa’s identity and livelihood were co-opted without her consent, reducing her existence to a viral trend.

When Fame Turns into a Nightmare

While social media can democratize fame, it also has the power to disrupt lives in unforeseen ways. Krithika Subramaniam, a hospitality entrepreneur, observed: “Monalisa isn’t an influencer or a public figure — she didn’t choose this. Beauty can be a blessing, but the way we treat women like her turns it into a curse. It’s no longer about her as a person; it’s about what people project onto her and using her to create a trend.”

The frenzy surrounding Monalisa’s viral fame had real-world consequences. Reports of harassment by strangers and photographers forced her family to take action, prioritizing her safety over their business. Despite the widespread attention she received, Monalisa remained distant from the very platforms that disrupted her life. For her, garlands were not metaphors or hashtags; they were a means of survival.

The romanticization of poverty and struggle under the guise of celebrating beauty is a troubling trend. Suma Harris remarked, “If you really admire her, why not ask how you can help her instead of turning her into a viral sensation?”

This sentiment underscores a critical point: online admiration must translate into meaningful support rather than shallow validation. The public’s obsession with Monalisa’s appearance has overshadowed the fact that she is a hardworking woman trying to make ends meet. Instead of empowering her, the viral frenzy exploited her.

The story of Monalisa Bhonsle serves as a poignant reminder of the double-edged sword of social media. While it has the power to shine a spotlight on everyday heroes, it also comes with the responsibility to respect their humanity and boundaries. Monalisa’s journey from a humble garland seller to an internet sensation is not just about the fleeting nature of online fame but also about the ethical dilemmas it poses.

As users of social media, it is crucial to reflect on how our actions impact those we elevate to celebrity status. Genuine admiration should go hand in hand with respect and support. For Monalisa, the garlands she sells symbolize more than beauty — they represent resilience, dignity, and a life lived with purpose. Let us ensure that our admiration uplifts rather than exploits.