On 21 August 1911, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris in one of the world’s most sensational art crimes. Vincenzo Peruggia, an Italian handyman familiar with the museum, walked out with the painting hidden under his clothing. The theft sparked panic and international media frenzy. Even famous artists like Pablo Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire were questioned but later cleared.

The mystery ended in December 1913 when Peruggia tried to sell the painting in Florence, claiming he wanted to return it to Italy. Arrested and briefly jailed, he inadvertently turned the Mona Lisa into the globe’s most famous painting.

Kerala adds a touch of humour

On 21 August (Thursday), Kerala Tourism, known for its playful campaigns, shared an AI-created image of the Mona Lisa draped in a traditional Kerala kasavu saree. The iconic figure also wears jasmine flowers in her hair. The post read: “Timeless. Graceful. Iconic. The Kerala kasavu saree. #Meme #Monalisa #OnamDestination #OnamFestKerala #LandOfHarmony #Onam #OnamBeyondBorders #FestivalofEquality #KeralaTourism.”

The campaign is part of Kerala Tourism’s Onam special campaign. Onam, Kerala’s grandest festival, is celebrated across generations, faiths, and traditions. This year, the department’s theme is ‘State of Harmony’, capturing the spirit of unity and cultural pride.

Kerala Tourism’s playful streak

Kerala Tourism has previously attracted global attention with its witty campaigns. A recent example was the UK’s F-35B Lightning II fighter jet grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The department posted an image of the jet with the caption: “Kerala is such an amazing place, I don't want to leave. Definitely recommend.” They followed up with: “Kerala, the destination you'll never want to leave. Thank you, The Fauxy.” The posts even made international headlines.