
Key Highlights:
- Viral Sensation to Actress: Monalisa, the Maha Kumbh’s “Rudraksha Girl” famed for her captivating eyes, secures her Bollywood debut in The Diary of Manipur.
- Star-Studded Cast: Co-stars with Amit Rao (Rajkumar Rao’s brother) and actor-director Mahendra Lodhi.
- Film Details: Directed by Sanoj Mishra; shot across Delhi, Manipur, and London; budgeted at ₹20 crore.
- Release Timeline: Shooting begins in February 2025, with a October 2025 theatrical release.
- Backstory: Monalisa went viral while selling Rudraksha at Maha Kumbh, leading to her casting after overwhelming public attention forced her to return home.
Mumbai/ Maheshwar (MP): Monalisa, the young woman who captured millions of hearts with her enchanting smile and striking eyes during the Maha Kumbh 2025, is now poised to enchant audiences on the silver screen. The 23-year-old, who became an overnight sensation while selling Rudraksha beads in Prayagraj, has been cast as the female lead in the upcoming drama The Diary of Manipur, directed by Sanoj Mishra.
From Prayagraj to the Spotlight
Monalisa’s life changed dramatically during her stint at the Maha Kumbh, where her “kajraari eyes” and radiant presence made her a social media phenomenon. Videos of her went viral, amassing over 10 million views within days. However, the sudden fame became overwhelming.
“People surrounded me with cameras. I couldn’t work, so I returned home to Maheshwar,” Monalisa shared in an exclusive interview. Little did she know, director Sanoj Mishra was already tracking her story.
Behind the Scenes: How Monalisa Landed Her Big Break
Mishra, known for indie films like Khaamoshiyan (2025), traveled to Monalisa’s village in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, to offer her the role. “Her innocence and screen presence are magnetic. She personifies the character we envisioned a blend of resilience and grace,” Mishra revealed.
Preparing for Stardom
Before filming begins in February, Monalisa will undergo acting training in Mumbai under industry veterans. “I never imagined I’d be an actress. This feels like a dream,” she said.
The Diary of Manipur: Plot and Cast
The film follows Ananya (Monalisa), the daughter of a North Indian Army officer stationed in Imphal, who navigates cultural identity and personal struggles.
- Amit Rao plays her romantic lead, marking his debut as a leading man.
- Mahendra Lodhi portrays a retired soldier pivotal to the narrative.
- The story spans Delhi, Manipur, and London, blending drama with social commentary.
Co-producers Yamin Khan and Javed Devariyawale emphasized the film’s focus on “storytelling that bridges regional divides.”
Challenges and Ambitions
While the film’s ₹20 crore budget is modest by Bollywood standards, Mishra is confident: “Great stories don’t need massive budgets. Monalisa’s authenticity is our biggest asset.”
Post-debut, Monalisa hopes to portray strong, relatable characters. “I want to inspire girls from small towns to chase their dreams,” she said.
The Viral Spark That Ignited a Star
Monalisa’s journey from a Rudraksha seller at the Kumbh to a Bollywood lead epitomizes the unpredictability of fame in the digital age. As she gears up for her cinematic journey, the nation watches, eager to see if her silver-screen presence matches the charm that made her an internet darling.
Release Alert: The Diary of Manipur hits theaters October 2025.