Lenskart outlet row: BJP leader applies tilak to staff

Lenskart became the centre of a protest in Mumbai when members of Hindu organisations, led by a BJP Minority Morcha leader, entered a showroom and raised objections over an alleged ban on Hindu symbols at work. The protest began after claims surfaced that employees were not allowed to wear bindi and tilak, while the hijab was permitted.

During the protest, the group confronted staff and raised slogans inside the store. They applied tilak on some employees and tied sacred threads (kalawa) on their wrists. This action quickly drew public attention because it took place inside a retail outlet. The protest was led by Nazia Elahi Khan. She questioned the store’s policy and asked why some religious symbols were restricted. She also spoke to the floor manager, Mohsin Khan, and demanded clear answers.

After leaving the store, Nazia Elahi spoke to the media and criticised the company’s stand. She accused the management of favouring one religion over another. She also warned of a possible boycott if the company failed to respond. The incident has now started a wider debate about workplace rules and religious freedom. Some people support the protest, while others question the way it happened.

The situation became tense when the group called Hindu employees forward and applied tilak on their foreheads. They said people should freely show their religious identity. Many employees looked uncomfortable but did not resist.

At the same time, one staff member shared details about company training. He said the company had earlier asked employees not to wear tilak or sacred thread during work. He also claimed that married women could not wear mangalsutra at the workplace.

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Lenskart Clarifies Policy Amid Controversy

As the issue grew, Lenskart issued an apology. CEO Peyush Bansal clarified that the document circulating online was outdated and did not reflect the company’s current policy. He added that the earlier training note contained incorrect information and the company had already revised it.

The company later released a clear in-store style guide. It allows employees to wear symbols of their faith and culture, including bindi, tilak, hijab, and turban, across all outlets.

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