Bhagyashree's Viral Lassi Controversy Explained: Is Lassi Actually Healthy? Here's What An Expert Has To Say

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Popularly known for her debut film with Salman Khan, Maine Pyaar Kiya, actress Bhagyashree, who is very active on social media, recently visited Varanasi (Kashi) and filmed an Instagram reel at a popular local lassi shop. A short clip from the shoot soon went viral on social media, allegedly showing her promoting the lassi just for the camera and then refusing to drink it afterward, with claims that she said it contained "too much sugar and fat."

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Bhagyashree Breaks Silence On Viral Lassi Video

Bhagyashree responded through a post and video on Instagram, saying that she had been awake since 3 a.m. for the Mangala Aarti and had spent hours walking around the ghats in extreme heat. The lassi was an energy booster that she actually enjoyed. She explained that curd-based drinks are nutritious, while also acknowledging that sweetened lassi may not be suitable for people with diabetes, which she presented as general health advice rather than a reason for refusing the drink.

She then questioned the authenticity of the viral clip, asking, "Kya aap the wahan par?" ("Were you there?"), and said that uploading an incomplete video without context was real misinformation. Bhagyashree added that she was simply trying to support local vendors and promote regional food culture, not doing a paid promotion.

Is Lassi Healthy?

While the online discussion revolved around Bhagyashree's viral video, it has also sparked a broader conversation about whether lassi is actually a healthy drink. Here's what Swati Mohapatra, Chief Dietitian at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar, has to say.

"Lassi has always been an important ingredient in every Indian household particularly in summers. A blend of curd and water is used in making lassi. This traditional drink is refreshing, coolant, and is often associated with a healthier option to sugary drinks. However, does lassi really serve its purpose being the healthiest choice? Well, it certainly does, provided that the right version is chosen."

Health Benefits Of Unsweetened Lassi

According to her, unsweetened lassi, i.e. the one made with fresh curd provides the following benefits:

• Firstly, it contains essential nutrients including protein, calcium, and probiotics that promote a better state of digestive system and health.
• In turn, probiotics included in the curd support the development of beneficial gut flora thus improving the processes of digestion, boosting the immune system, and reducing bloating.
• Additionally, calcium and proteins increase bone and muscle strength.

"Another advantage of this beverage is its ability to replenish the water balance and maintain the hydration of the body. In addition, the combination of water, curd, and electrolytes make this drink a great solution for hydration when the weather gets hot. Lassi is able to cool the body and it may be easier to digest compared to milk because of the fermentation process.", Dr. Mohapatra points out.

When Lassi May Not Be The Healthiest Choice

However despite these benefits, Dr Mohapatra specified that not every kind of lassi can provide the above-mentioned benefits. The sweet lassi sold in restaurants or the store-bought ones usually contain huge amounts of added sugar, artificial flavors, and additional calories. Therefore, the consumption of such products may lead to weight gain and blood sugar level disturbance. Moreover, the creamy lassi can include excessive amounts of saturated fats.

How To Enjoy Lassi The Healthy Way

She concludes, "In order to maximize the advantages, one should choose homemade plain or salted lassi made from fresh curd and add roasted cumin, mint, coriander or black salt to it. As any other food, lassi should be consumed in moderate amounts. Provided it is prepared traditionally, lassi becomes a highly nutritious and refreshing drink."

Bhagyashree's Viral Video Also Sparked A Health Conversation

While Bhagyashree has clarified that the viral clip was taken out of context and denied misleading people, the incident has also brought attention to the nutritional value of one of India's most popular summer beverages. As the expert explains, lassi can be a healthy and refreshing drink when prepared traditionally with fresh curd and consumed in moderation. However, versions loaded with added sugar, artificial flavours, or excessive cream are best enjoyed occasionally, making the preparation just as important as the drink itself.