From Vegetarian to Vegan: Anushka's Evolving Diet
When Anushka Sharma first made headlines for her dietary changes, it was her embrace of vegetarianism that drew public attention. Over time, her commitment to ethical and healthy living deepened, leading her to adopt a fully vegan diet. This transition reflects a broader trend of increased awareness about the health, environmental, and ethical implications of food choices. For many fans, the question 'is Anushka Sharma pure veg?' comes from a place of curiosity about her disciplined and mindful lifestyle.
The 2015 Shift to Vegetarianism
In 2015, Anushka Sharma was widely reported to have become a vegetarian. During this period, she openly discussed the positive impact of her meat-free diet on her health and energy levels. Sources reported that her decision was influenced by her pet dog, Dude, who reportedly disliked the smell of meat. This love for animals was a primary motivator that laid the groundwork for her eventual shift to veganism. Her advocacy for animal rights also led to her being voted one of the 'hottest vegetarians of 2015' by PETA India, a clear signal of her commitment.
Embracing a Vegan Lifestyle
As years passed, Anushka moved beyond vegetarianism to fully embrace a vegan diet. By 2017, she described herself as 'almost vegan' and following a gluten-free diet. The complete switch was confirmed in later years, often mentioned alongside her husband, Virat Kohli, who also adopted a plant-based diet. Recent reports from 2025 confirm that the couple has been 'strictly vegan for almost a decade now,' solidifying her status as a committed vegan. This progression from vegetarian to vegan highlights a deeper commitment to a lifestyle free from all animal products, including dairy and eggs.
What is 'Pure Veg'? A Comparison
The term 'pure veg' is often used in India to denote a lacto-vegetarian diet, which includes dairy products but no meat, fish, or eggs. Anushka Sharma's current vegan diet goes a step further, excluding all animal-derived ingredients. This distinction is crucial for understanding her dietary evolution. Here is a comparison to clarify the differences:
| Feature | Lacto-Vegetarian ('Pure Veg') | Vegan Diet (Anushka Sharma's Current Diet) |
|---|---|---|
| Meat/Fish | No | No |
| Eggs | No | No |
| Dairy Products (Milk, Paneer, etc.) | Yes | No |
| Honey | Yes | No |
| Core Philosophy | Excludes meat and eggs for ethical/religious reasons, but accepts dairy. | Excludes all animal products for ethical, environmental, and health reasons. |
| Nutritional Emphasis | Focuses on plant foods and dairy for protein and calcium. | Focuses on diverse plant foods for all nutritional needs, using fortified foods or supplements for key nutrients like B12. |
The Motivations Behind Her Choice
Anushka's transition was not arbitrary but rooted in deep convictions. Her journey was driven by a mix of personal and ethical factors. Some key reasons include:
- Love for animals: Her affection for her dog Dude is cited as an initial trigger for her move away from non-vegetarian food. This animal compassion is a recurring theme in her public statements and actions.
- Health benefits: She has publicly attributed increased energy and better health to her plant-based diet. A gluten-free and vegan approach fits well with a healthy, disciplined lifestyle.
- Environmental consciousness: As a public figure, she has expressed a desire to set a positive example and has spoken about her commitment to the environment. Reducing one's carbon footprint by adopting a plant-based diet is a significant contributor to environmental sustainability. PETA India highlights the environmental benefits of plant-based eating.
- Spiritual reasons: In a 2017 interview with Elle India, she mentioned that spiritual reasons also played a part in her lifestyle change.
Daily Diet and Lifestyle
Anushka Sharma's diet today is focused on whole, plant-based foods. This includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. She has been known to follow a simple, nutritious routine with small, regular meals. For instance, she has mentioned eating alternatives to wheat like amaranth, bajra, and quinoa and opting for simple, home-cooked meals. Her disciplined diet is complemented by a consistent fitness regime, including yoga, strength training, and other exercises.
Conclusion
In summary, the question 'is Anushka Sharma pure veg?' has a nuanced answer. While she began her dietary shift as a vegetarian in 2015, her commitment evolved into a strict vegan lifestyle, a path she continues to follow today. Her journey is a testament to her dedication to animal welfare, health, and a conscious way of living, inspiring many of her fans to consider their own food choices.
