Here’s a shocking truth: a wellness influencer just got called out on national television for claiming to be a doctor—without the credentials to back it up. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is he a fraud preying on vulnerable customers, or just a passionate naturopath who crossed a line? Let’s dive in.
In a recent episode of Shark Tank India, influencer Dr. Manoj Das pitched his natural skincare and haircare brand, Lewisia Wellness, to the panel of judges. While the sharks—Aman Gupta, Anupam Mittal, Namita Thapar, and Kunal Bahl—are known for their sharp business acumen, this pitch took an unexpected turn. Instead of discussing profits and growth, the conversation quickly shifted to Das’s qualifications and the ethics of his marketing tactics.
And this is the part most people miss: Das identifies himself as a naturopath and aromatherapy specialist, which he claims justifies his use of the title ‘doctor.’ But Anupam Mittal wasn’t having it. In a heated exchange, Mittal questioned Das’s credibility, sarcastically remarking, ‘If you’re saying a Bachelor’s in Aromatherapy qualifies you as a doctor, then I’ll change my name too!’ The tension escalated when Das revealed his Amazon ratings were a modest 3.5, despite claiming ₹5 crore in sales. Mittal accused him of buying reviews, while Kunal Bahl pressed for transparency, asking, ‘What kind of game are you playing here?’
The backlash didn’t stop at the tank. Online, Dr. Rahul Chawla, an AIIMS-trained neurologist, labeled Das a ‘quack doctor’ and urged followers to verify the credentials of health influencers they trust. Here’s the burning question: Are naturopaths and wellness influencers crossing ethical boundaries by using titles like ‘doctor,’ or is this just a gray area in need of clearer regulation?
This episode isn’t just about one pitch gone wrong—it’s a wake-up call about the trust we place in wellness brands and the titles they use. What do you think? Is Dr. Manoj Das a fraud, or is the system failing to define who can call themselves a doctor? Let’s debate in the comments!
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. The claims in this report are based on user-generated content and have not been independently verified by HT.com.
