New Delhi: Noted film director Sanoj Mishra, who recently gained attention for offering a film role to viral Mahakumbh girl Monalisa, has been arrested on rape charges. Mishra was taken into custody by the Nabi Karim police station in Delhi after his bail plea was rejected by the Delhi High Court.
Accused of Drugging and Raping an Aspiring Actress
According to the victim, a young woman from a small town who aspired to become an actress, Mishra sexually exploited her multiple times. The survivor alleged that she first came into contact with Mishra through TikTok and Instagram in 2020 while living in Jhansi. They stayed in touch, and on June 17, 2021, the director reportedly called her, informing her that he had arrived at Jhansi railway station. When she initially refused to meet him due to social pressure, Mishra allegedly threatened to commit suicide. Out of fear, the victim agreed to meet him.
On June 18, 2021, Mishra allegedly repeated the suicide threat and called her to the railway station once again. This time, he took her to a resort, where he is accused of drugging and raping her. The FIR states that Mishra recorded objectionable videos and clicked explicit pictures of the victim, using them to blackmail her into further sexual exploitation. He allegedly lured her with false promises of marriage and film opportunities while continuing the abuse.
Mishra Was Training Viral Girl Monalisa for Acting
Mishra recently made headlines after he announced that Monalisa, the girl who went viral for selling beads at the Mahakumbh Mela, would star in his upcoming film, The Diary of 2025. Reports suggested that he was also training Monalisa in acting and frequently accompanying her to various locations.
Public Backlash and Online Trolling
Mishra’s association with Monalisa had already drawn criticism, with many social media users accusing him of exploiting her for personal gain. A recent video showing them traveling together on a plane further fueled speculation and controversy. Responding to the allegations, Mishra had previously defended himself, claiming that he noticed Monalisa gaining viral fame at the Mahakumbh Mela but found that no one was actually helping her. He stated that Monalisa and her family were struggling financially, living in a tent without a proper home, and that he was trying to provide her with a better life.
However, with his arrest on serious charges, questions have been raised about his intentions and credibility.
Legal Proceedings Underway
The Delhi police are now proceeding with the legal process following his arrest. The allegations against him are severe, and further investigations will determine the course of action. If proven guilty, Mishra could face stringent legal consequences.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the exploitation that can take place in the entertainment industry, where young aspirants often fall prey to false promises and manipulation. Authorities have urged aspiring actors to exercise caution and report any form of exploitation to law enforcement agencies.
