Bollywood star's homeopathy endorsement sparks health debate

A Bollywood actress's endorsement of an alternative medical system has sparked a widespread debate about the influence of celebrity health advice and the scientific validity of homeopathy. Anushka Sharma recently posted an Instagram Story praising homeopathy as an important part of her life and crediting homeopathic physician Dr. Rajan Sankaran for contributing significantly to her health and wellbeing.

The post drew immediate criticism from many social media users and medical professionals. Critics questioned the lack of specific details about Sharma's medical condition and treatment, arguing that such transparency would help followers make more informed decisions. Some users highlighted what they saw as a contradiction, noting that Sharma and her husband, cricketer Virat Kohli, live abroad with access to advanced healthcare systems, while promoting homeopathy to a large Indian audience. One user described the endorsement as hypocrisy, suggesting the actress was promoting unscientific treatments to followers who face different environmental and healthcare challenges.

The criticism extended beyond social media. Hepatologist Cyriac Abby Philips, known online as The Liver Doc,...