From garland seller to Bollywood starlet: Indore’s Monalisa Bhosle’s remarkable rise. Monalisa, the captivating young woman who unexpectedly became an internet sensation selling garlands at the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, is trading flower petals for film sets. Her journey, a captivating blend of serendipity and determination, is set to become a cinematic reality. Director Sanoj Mishra, celebrated for his socially conscious films such as The Diary of West Bengal, has cast Bhosle in his highly anticipated upcoming movie, The Diary of Manipur.

Spotted amidst the vibrant chaos of the Kumbh Mela, Monalisa’s innocent beauty and captivating charm quickly captured the hearts of millions online. Her story, a testament to the power of social media, reached director Mishra, who was deeply moved by her resilience and spirit. He saw in her not just a pretty face, but a compelling narrative waiting to be told. Following a phone call to her father, a contract was swiftly signed in Maheshwar, officially marking Bhosle’s entry into the world of Bollywood.

Mishra’s choice is far from arbitrary. Bhosle’s role in The Diary of Manipur will draw upon the very essence of her own life. As Mishra eloquently explains, “Monalisa hails from a humble, nomadic family, making a living by selling garlands. This resonates deeply with her character in the film: the daughter of a retired Manipur army soldier, harbouring a similar unwavering ambition—to join the army herself. The film will delve into the struggles she faces, the obstacles she overcomes, and ultimately, her journey towards fulfilling her dreams.”

To prepare Bhosle for her big-screen debut, Mishra and his team will provide comprehensive acting training, meticulously designed to preserve her natural charm and unassuming demeanour. Mishra stresses the importance of authenticity, stating, “Our focus is to nurture her innate talent, allowing her natural grace and innocence to shine through. We want her performance to be a genuine reflection of her spirit.”

With a substantial budget of ₹20 crore, The Diary of Manipur is poised to be a significant cinematic undertaking, slated to begin filming in February. Mishra’s decision to cast Bhosle carries a profound message, challenging conventional industry norms and preconceived audience expectations.

He firmly asserts, “Success in this industry is not solely defined by physical attributes; acting prowess is paramount. Monalisa possesses the desire, and we will cultivate her skills. If Sunny Leone could redefine perceptions, then surely a girl from a nomadic community can prove that decency and simplicity can also illuminate Bollywood.”

Mishra’s casting choice also serves as a direct response to the pervasive nepotism within the industry. He champions the inclusion of fresh talent, stating emphatically, “My films aren’t about star power; the story itself is the star. Stories like Monalisa’s deserve a platform, and audiences are increasingly receptive to authentic narratives.” Bhosle’s story, therefore, is not just a personal triumph, but a symbol of hope and a challenge to the established order of Bollywood.

Bollywood icon Akshay Kumar celebrated acclaimed director Priyadarshan’s 68th birthday with a heartfelt Instagram post, marking a significant reunion for the iconic duo. Their collaboration, spanning numerous successful films from the early 2000s, is legendary.

Priyadarshan, the mastermind behind cult classics like Hera Pheri, Hungama, Dhol, De Dana Dan, Chup Chup Ke, Garam Masala, and Bhagam Bhaag, often featured Akshay Kumar in leading roles. This prolific partnership solidified their status as one of Bollywood’s most successful director-actor pairings. Films such as Hera Pheri, De Dana Dan, Garam Masala, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Khatta Meetha stand as testaments to their creative synergy and box-office prowess.

Akshay’s Instagram post, featuring a behind-the-scenes photo from the set of their new film, Bhooth Bangla, captured their jovial camaraderie. The image showed them sharing a laugh, setting the tone for Akshay’s affectionate message. He expressed his gratitude for Priyadarshan’s mentorship, playfully referencing the “haunted set” and the potential chaos of filmmaking.

His caption read, “Happy Birthday, Priyan Sir! What better way to celebrate than by spending the day on a haunted set, surrounded by ghosts…both real and unpaid extras? Thank you for being a mentor, and the only person who can make chaos look like a masterpiece. May your day be filled with fewer retakes. Wishing you a fantastic year ahead!” Akshay’s stylish attire—a black fedora and green jacket layered over a black tee—hints at a potential on-screen look for Bhooth Bangla.

The post generated significant excitement amongst fans, who eagerly anticipated the film’s release. Comments flooded in, praising their dynamic and expressing immense enthusiasm for their reunion after a fourteen-year break. One fan aptly summarized the sentiment: “Akshay sir + Priyan sir = Blast.”

Others highlighted the undeniable bond and the anticipation for Bhooth Bangla, emphasizing the duo’s history of producing box-office hits. The return of this powerhouse collaboration, evident in the recently released first poster of Bhooth Bangla, promises a highly anticipated horror-comedy slated for a 2025 theatrical release. The film, directed by Priyadarshan with Akshay Kumar in the lead, is set to reignite the magic of their earlier successes.

Hema Malini, the celebrated Bollywood actress and Member of Parliament, added a touch of levity to the otherwise solemn proceedings of the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Her visit, earlier this week, culminated in a now-viral video showcasing a spontaneous moment of laughter. The clip captures Malini’s joyous reaction to a playful mishap involving yoga guru Baba Ramdev.

After participating in the sacred ritual of bathing in the Triveni Sangam on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya, Ramdev experienced an unexpected event. Someone playfully—or perhaps accidentally—untied his long, wet hair. The resulting hair flip sent his tresses flying backward, playfully smacking those behind him in the face—twice.

Malini, witnessing this comical turn of events, erupted in laughter, a reaction that perfectly encapsulates the blend of devotion and lightheartedness present at the Kumbh Mela. The video, quickly circulating on social media, highlights this unexpected comedic interlude amidst the spiritual gathering.

Malini’s presence at the Maha Kumbh was significant, not only for her celebrity status but also for her participation in the age-old tradition of the holy dip. She described the experience as a “good fortune,” highlighting the spiritual significance of the event for her.

Beyond the lighthearted moment, Malini also engaged in a spiritual meeting with Junapeethadhishwar Mahamandaleshwar Acharya Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, receiving his blessings. The Uttar Pradesh government released official statements and photographs confirming this meeting, adding further weight to Malini’s participation in the Kumbh Mela.

Malini wasn’t alone among celebrities; several other prominent figures from the Indian entertainment industry attended the Maha Kumbh. Sunil Grover, Kabir Khan, Guru Randhawa, Avinash Tiwary, Mamta Kulkarni, and Anupam Kher were among those who participated in the grand religious gathering. This confluence of faith, tradition, and celebrity underscores the broad appeal and cultural significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela.

The event, which began on January 13th and continues until February 26th, saw a massive influx of pilgrims, with the government reporting over 14.76 crore attendees by Monday, with 1.55 crore participating in the holy bath on that day alone. The remaining significant bathing dates include February 3rd (Basant Panchami), February 12th (Maghi Purnima), and February 26th (Maha Shivaratri). These dates are expected to draw even larger crowds.