Social media attention turns bane for garland seller Monalisa Bhonsle

Dubbed ‘Brown Beauty’ by her admirers, the overwhelming attention, however, disrupted her work; videos show her family intervening to protect her from the unwanted attention

Hyderabad: Social media proved to be a bane for Monalisa Bhonsle, who became an internet sensation after a video of her selling garlands at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj went viral.

The attention the 16-year-old grabbed was such that, the garland seller was forced to leave for her native place —Indore.

Dubbed ‘Brown Beauty’ for her charming looks and light eyes, the overwhelming attention, however, disrupted her work. Videos show her family intervening to protect her from the unwanted attention.

One video, going viral on various social media platforms, showed the garland seller covering her face with a scarf as crowds, especially social media influencers and YouTubers, among others, thronged her stall to take selfies and videos.

According to reports, Monalisa’s father decided to bring her back to Indore as the Kumbh Mela was no longer a viable place for her well-being or livelihood.

Meanwhile, soon after her pictures took over the internet, Bollywood filmmaker Sanoj Mishra reportedly offered to cast her in his new film. According to reports, the director known for the films ‘The Diary of West Bengal’ and ‘Ram ki Janmabhoomi’ might cast Monalisa in the lead role for his next film.