A garland seller named Monalisa Bhonsle from Indore has gained widespread attention at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj for her resemblance to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Her distinctive features have drawn large crowds, which are impacting her business.

From mala seller to online sensation: How Monalisa Bhonsle became Maha Kumbh’s unexpected star

NEW DELHI: At the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Monalisa Bhonsle, a garland seller from Indore, has unexpectedly become the focal point of attention among the spiritual crowd.

Known for her striking features — dusky complexion, amber eyes, distinctive nose, and well-defined facial structure — she has drawn comparisons to the iconic Mona Lisa.

A viral video showing the young woman selling malas at the Triveni Sangam sparked widespread online discussions, with many social media users highlighting her resemblance to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting.

While her newfound fame has gained her significant social media followers, it has come with unintended consequences.

The surge in popularity has disrupted her business, as visitors and social media influencers gather around her for selfies and videos, rather than purchasing the garlands she’s selling.

A social media post by Sachin Gupta on platform X noted that while Monalisa’s fame has attracted large crowds, it has resulted in a decline in her sales, as fewer customers focus on buying her merchandise. Her income has been negatively affected, and she now faces the challenge of balancing her business with the overwhelming attention