Bindi Ban Row Hits Lenskart - CEO Clarifies Amid Rising Anger

Popular eyewear brand Lenskart is currently facing a major controversy after an internal grooming guideline document was leaked on social media. The document reportedly mentioned restrictions on wearing Hindu traditional symbols like bindi, tilak and bangles for store staff, while allowing hijab and turban. This led to strong reactions from several Hindu organizations, who accused the company of religious discrimination. The hashtag “Boycott Lenskart” started trending on social media platforms.

According to reports, the leaked document stated that employees interacting with customers should avoid wearing large bindis or tilaks and keep sindoor minimal. However, since hijabs and turbans were reportedly allowed, critics argued that the company was selectively targeting Hindu practices. Protests were held in various places, where demonstrators visited Lenskart stores and applied tilaks to employees as a sign of protest. In Hyderabad too, members of Hindu groups entered stores and expressed their disagreement.

As the controversy grew, Lenskart’s founder and CEO Peyush Bansal responded, stating that the document in circulation is outdated and contains incorrect information. He clarified that the company respects all religions and does not restrict any religious symbols, including bindi, tilak, sindoor, hijab or turban. Despite this explanation, many people are still questioning why such a policy existed earlier and remain unsatisfied with the response.