A wellness startup’s big claims collapsed on Shark Tank India Season 5 after judges flagged misleading medical credentials and questionable product promises.

The Season 5 opener of Shark Tank India on January 5, 2026 took an unexpected turn when a Jaipur-based entrepreneur faced tough scrutiny over the way his wellness brand was being promoted. Manoj Das, founder of Lewisia Wellness, had asked for ₹1 crore in exchange for 1% equity, while projecting a ₹10 crore turnover and a strong social media following.

However, instead of valuation talks, the focus quickly shifted to credibility. The judges questioned Das’s use of the “Dr.” title, pointing out that he did not hold a recognised medical qualification. Anupam Mittal made a sharp remark that even a degree in aromatherapy does not make someone a doctor and warned that such misrepresentation could invite legal trouble.

The criticism didn’t stop there. Aman Gupta accused the brand of misleading customers by advertising products as “chemical-free” despite containing chemicals, calling the pitch unethical. Other judges also rejected the proposal, saying claims of curing diseases without proper clinical trials were unacceptable.

Following the backlash on the show, Das reportedly removed “Dr.” from his Instagram bio, signalling damage control after the public criticism.

The episode highlights how health and wellness startups are held to a higher bar, especially when they make medical or therapeutic claims. For consumers, it serves as a reminder to look beyond influencer marketing and verify qualifications before trusting health products. For founders, the message is clear: transparency and evidence matter as much as revenue numbers, particularly in a sector that directly affects public well-being.