Thiruvananthapuram— As Kerala gears up for the vibrant Onam season, an unexpected icon has joined the celebrations: Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. In a bold and creative campaign, the Kerala Tourism Department has reimagined the world-famous Renaissance painting with a distinctly Malayali twist — and the internet can’t get enough of it.
Posted across Kerala Tourism’s social media platforms, the image shows the iconic figure adorned in a traditional off-white kasavu saree, complete with jasmine flowers tucked into her hair. While her attire and styling reflect Kerala’s cultural heritage, the artwork retains the painting’s timeless charm — most notably, Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile.
The caption reads: “Kerala Tourism – Timeless. Graceful. Iconic.” It’s part of a broader promotional campaign inviting tourists to experience Onam, Kerala’s grandest festival, which begins on August 26 and culminates on Thiruvonam, September 5.
The AI-generated artwork has quickly captured public imagination, going viral within hours. Social media users have praised the campaign for blending high art with regional identity. “Brilliant way to connect cultures,” one comment read. “Mona Lisa never looked more festive,” quipped another.
Tourism officials confirmed the timing of the release was no coincidence — it comes just days after the anniversary of the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre Museum, a historic moment that thrust the artwork into global fame. By referencing that moment, the campaign cleverly positions Kerala’s culture in dialogue with international art history.
Over the past few years, Kerala Tourism has built a reputation for inventive digital campaigns, and this one continues that trend — using pop culture and visual storytelling to drive engagement. The state has seen steady growth in both domestic and international visitors, bolstered by such creative outreach efforts.
As Onam approaches, the “Malayali Mona Lisa” now serves as a graceful ambassador — a fusion of global iconography and local tradition, welcoming the world to celebrate Kerala at its cultural peak. (Source: IANS)
