Recently, actress Anushka Sharma was spotted at Mumbai airport with her husband, cricketer Virat Kohli. What attracted everyone’s attention, besides their elegant ethnic outfits, was the Tulsi mala around Anushka’s neck. The sacred necklace, symbolizing religious devotion to Lord Vishnu, is a mark of rectitude and spiritual dedication. Having decided to wear it openly she’s gotten everyone talking about how Bollywood is evolving and is also an arena where faith can and does express itself more openly in the industry.
For decades, Bollywood actresses have kept their religious habits private, avoiding overt demonstrations of faith. The Tulsi mala was a bold move by Anushka. She wore it with confidence, confirming that self-belief and spirituality can and should be embraced openly, despite the glamour and modernity synonymous with the industry.
The Tulsi mala is more than jewelry; it contains very profound spiritual implications. Traditionally worn by devotees of Lord Vishnu, it symbolizes discipline, purity and devotion. In her wearing it, Anushka conveyed her commitment to an eternal tradition, Sanatan Dharma, in Hinduism. As someone who thinks of being true to the pride they have of the culture, most people responded very positively to this gesture.
For much of its history, Bollywood has been affected by global fashion and the modern lifestyle. But change has emerged in recent years, as more actors adopt traditional values and symbols. Anushka’s decision mirrors that change, where stars are no longer reluctant to embrace their Dharma. It implies the industry is more receptive toward incorporating spirituality into stardom and that cultural identity is starting to be equally celebrated as professional accomplishment.
Anushka’s appearance was widely circulated on social media, with fans praising her simplicity and courage. Many considered that new step to be a welcome one, as a star of her scale would rather show faith, not cover it up. The scene led to a debate about how Bollywood is developing as Sanatan Dharma emerged as a new star with good visibility.
Tulsi mala was more than a fashion accessory, Anushka Sharma said. By wearing it overtly, she proved that spirituality and tradition can coexist with modern celebrity life. Her brave stance is just one step in a much-overlooked evolution in Bollywood, where Sanatan Dharma has only just started to light up even further and cultural identity is held in pride.
