Lenskart apologises after online backlash, releases new style guide welcoming religious symbols

Lenskart apologised after backlash over a grooming policy, issuing a new guide allowing religious symbols like bindi, hijab, and turban. Founder Peyush Bansal clarified the controversial document was outdated, reaffirming inclusivity and respect

New Delhi: Following massive online backlash over a purported internal grooming document, eyewear retailer Lenskart has issued a public apology and released a standardised ‘In-Store Style Guide’ that allows employees to wear religious and cultural symbols at work.

In a statement on X, the company said it is making its guidelines public and transparent to address the concerns of its customers and community.

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The new policy “explicitly and unambiguously” welcomes all symbols of faith carried by team members, including the bindi, tilak, sindoor, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, hijab, and turban.

“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,” the company said.

This comes following a controversy that erupted earlier this week when a document, alleged to be Lenskart’s employee grooming policy, went viral on social media. Netizens pointed out that the policy restricted employees from wearing certain religious markers, particularly the bindi and tilak, sparking outrage and calls for a boycott.

Addressing the uproar a few days ago, Lenskart founder Peyush Bansal had stepped in to clarify that the viral document was an “outdated version” and did not reflect the company’s current stance.

“I want to speak directly that this document does not reflect our present guidelines. Our policy has no restrictions on any form of religious expression, including bindi and tilak,” Bansal had stated, apologising for the confusion and concern the situation had caused.

Building on Bansal’s earlier clarification, Lenskart’s latest statement emphasised the company’s homegrown roots, noting that its 2,400-plus stores are run by people who bring their beliefs and traditions to work every day.

“Lenskart was built in Bharat, by Indians, for Indians… That is not something we will ever ask anyone to leave at the door,” the statement read.

The retailer has now committed to ensuring that every future policy, training material, and communication carrying the Lenskart name will reflect inclusive values.

“We will do better. And we will keep earning your trust,” the company said.