The premiere of Shark Tank India Season 5 on SonyLIV erupted in controversy as an influencer's pitch left the panel of investors both exasperated and deeply skeptical. The episode, which quickly became a talking point, featured Dr Manoj Das presenting his natural skincare and haircare brand, Lewisia Wellness.
The Pitch That Raised Eyebrows
In the episode released on YouTube on 7 January, Manoj Das introduced himself using the prefix 'Dr.' When questioned by the Sharks, he clarified that he identifies as a naturopath and aromatherapy specialist, which he claimed justified the title. This explanation did not sit well with the investors, particularly Anupam Mittal.
Mittal expressed clear bafflement, retorting that if a Bachelor's in Aromatherapy allowed one to use 'Doctor,' he would change his own name. The founder of Shaadi.com then proceeded to grill Das on his intentions, challenging him on selling products that target common vulnerabilities like hair loss, ageing, and weight loss.
Sharks Question Claims and Credibility
Das entered the Tank seeking ₹1 crore in exchange for a mere 1% equity in Lewisia Wellness, valuing his company highly. He sought the Sharks' support to scale the brand in the booming wellness market, claiming the business had generated profits of around ₹4 crore.
The scrutiny intensified when Snapdeal co-founder Kunal Bahl pressed him to reveal his products' ratings on online platforms. Das stated his products held a 3.5-star rating on Amazon. When Anupam Mittal suggested the reviews could be paid for, Das countered by revealing there were only '50 reviews' in total. This number stunned the Sharks, given his earlier claim of selling ₹5 crore worth of inventory.
Social Media Backlash and Public Reaction
Following the episode's broadcast, social media platforms buzzed with reactions to Manoj Das's pitch and claims. Many users voiced strong criticism, with one calling him a 'living example of how people scam through Instagram Reels.'
Another user expressed anger at the pitch, calling the claims visible lies, but was shocked by the reported sales numbers. The user remarked on the 'crazy' Indian appetite for so-called natural gimmicky products, while also casting doubt on the revenue figures presented in the Tank.
The fiery session on Shark Tank India's new season has ignited a broader conversation about credibility, ethics in influencer marketing, and consumer vulnerability in the vast wellness industry.
