Lenskart revises dress code, apologises after ‘bindi, tilak’ row
Eyewear retailer Lenskart has introduced a revised in-store style guide after facing backlash over an earlier policy that barred Hindu religious symbols such as bindi and tilak while allowing the hijab.
The controversy gained traction on social media, with users accusing the company of religious bias. In response, Lenskart clarified that the circulated policy was outdated and did not reflect its current guidelines.
Company responds to backlash
The brand, co-founded by Peyush Bansal, shared its updated style guide publicly and addressed the concerns.
In a post on X, the company said,
“We have heard you. Clearly and openly. Over the past few days, our community and customers have spoken – and we have listened. Today, we are standardising our In-Store Style Guide and sharing it publicly and transparently.”
What has changed in the policy
The revised guidelines retain general expectations around professional appearance but introduce key changes regarding religious and cultural expressions.
While the earlier version reportedly prohibited bindis and tilak, the updated policy now permits
“religious, cultural, or family marks (such as bindi, tilak, sindoor, or any other).”
Similarly, the previous restriction on religious threads has been lifted. The new guide allows
“cultural or religious items such as sacred threads, bangles, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, or any other.”
Employees who wish to wear a hijab are also allowed to continue doing so.
Apology and reactions
Lenskart issued an apology for any distress caused by the earlier communication.
The company said,
“If any version of our workplace communication caused hurt or made any of our team members feel that their faith was unwelcome here, we are deeply sorry. That is not who Lenskart is, and it is not who we will ever be,”
However, the clarification did not fully quell criticism, with some social media users questioning the company’s response and calling for a stronger apology.
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