All of us dream of becoming famous and we want people to know our name, and every single detail about us. People become viral for both good and bad reasons. Some become famous for a lifetime and some stay famous for a short span. But being famous comes with a lot of perils and such is the story of Moni Bhonsle- ‘Mona Lisa’. The Maha Kumbh Mela started 13th of January and will end by 26th February. It has only been a week that the Mela has started and a young girl has become a viral sensation overnight. But being famous is not becoming fruitful for her in any manner. 

Troubled by Fame : Mahakumbh’s Monalisa 

Moni Bhonsle ‘Monalisa’, the popular garland vendor with amber eyes from Indore, has claimed that a group of men trespassed into her tent to take photos with her against her wishes. When her brother stepped in to remove the photos from their phones, the men reportedly assaulted him. Monalisa gained popularity for her stunning appearance when an influencer recorded her at the Maha Kumbh Mela and posted it online. Since that time, she has been pursued by individuals for photos and interviews, which has greatly influenced her garland sales (not in a good way). 

 

In a video, she shared, “A few men came up to me claiming that my father had instructed them to take photos with me. I declined them.” She also asked them to return as she would not take photos with them. She also disclosed that her father, who came later and refuted sending anyone to her. Since she gained fame due to her natural beauty, people have been seeking her out for photographs. Through the video she shared her anxiety, and said, “I am frightened.” She also mentioned that there is no one near her and people are capable of hurting her. With that she also mentioned the lack of electricity in the premises, which sometimes make people scarier. 

She also shared that her brother became furious and defensive. He tried to grab their phones and delete the pictures. While he was struggling to do this, those nine men attacked him. Recently, there have been reports suggesting that her father sent her back home. Nonetheless, her grandfather has allegedly denied these assertions, claiming that she is still present at the Maha Kumbh Mela. He mentioned that she is feeling quite distressed in Prayagraj as she cannot work.  People are continuously arriving to meet her with their cameras and continue to speak. She cannot sell her products.  

Being Famous – Worth It ?

We have always read that the downside of being famous is losing privacy. As she navigates the challenges brought on by her viral status, it becomes clear that fame is not merely about recognition; it can also impose significant emotional and psychological burdens. This situation prompts a broader reflection on society’s obsession with celebrity culture and the responsibilities that come with it. Ultimately, Monalisa’s plight serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of fame, urging us to consider what we truly desire when we dream of being famous.