‘He won’t let me live’: Monalisa Bhosle accuses director Sanoj Mishra of sexual assault

Kochi: Monalisa Bhosle, 18, who became an internet sensation as the “Kumbh Mela girl” after a viral 2025 video showed her selling garlands and rudraksha beads at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, has accused film director Sanoj Mishra of sexual misconduct. She spoke at a press conference in Kochi with her husband, actor Farman Khan, claiming Mishra harassed her multiple times on film sets while she was still a minor.

Alleged incidents on film sets

Monalisa stated that the harassment occurred during the shooting of The Diary of Manipur in Nepal and Dehradun before she turned 18. She described unwanted physical advances and inappropriate touching. She added that her family did not support her when she reported the incidents, excusing the behaviour due to it being her first film and the potential for financial gain. Since she was a minor at the time, she said the actions could fall under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Claims of coercion and “Love Jihad” narrative

The actress alleged that Mishra is attempting to control her life by framing her marriage to Farman Khan as “Love Jihad.” She claimed that the director is using influence to incite communal narratives and restrict her and her husband’s freedom. Monalisa said they fear leaving Kerala due to threats from the director and segments of her family.

Monalisa revealed she fled to Kerala to avoid family pressure to marry a relative against her will. Under police protection, she recently married Farman Khan at a temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The couple stated that threats continue to affect their daily life.

Legal considerations

While Monalisa has not yet filed a formal police complaint regarding the alleged harassment, she is consulting legal experts to pursue a POCSO case. She accused Mishra of creating controversies to divert attention from his actions and limit her personal and professional freedom.

The press conference highlighted Monalisa’s call for safety, justice, and recognition of the harassment she faced as a minor, while emphasising the ongoing personal and legal challenges she confronts.