Lenskart came under intense public scrutiny in April 2026 after a purported internal grooming document went viral, sparking allegations of religious bias. The “outdated” training note reportedly asked employees to maintain a “neutral appearance,” restricting visible Hindu symbols such as bindis, tilaks, and kalawa, while allegedly permitting other religious attire like hijabs and turbans.
The perceived inconsistency triggered widespread backlash on social media, with critics accusing the company of discriminatory practices. Protests were also reported, with activists visiting outlets and symbolically applying tilaks on staff.
Responding to the controversy, CEO Peyush Bansal clarified that the document was an old and inaccurately referenced training material from February. He issued a public apology and assured that the company does not support any form of discrimination.
Lenskart subsequently introduced a revised and inclusive in-store style guide explicitly allowing all cultural and religious symbols, including bindis, tilaks, sindoor, hijabs, and turbans. The company reiterated its commitment to diversity and inclusion as it works to rebuild public trust following the incident.
