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Lenskart has revised its in-store employee style guide following widespread backlash over an outdated internal document from February that reportedly prohibited visible Hindu symbols such as bindi, tilak, and kalawa, while allowing hijabs and turbans.

The issue escalated after the old document resurfaced on social media, drawing criticism over alleged cultural insensitivity and unequal religious accommodation. The debate around cultural sensitivity in corporate workplaces has since intensified.

In response, CEO Peyush Bansal clarified that the February document was an internal training error that had already been withdrawn. The company has now released a new standardised Style Guide for its 2,400+ stores, explicitly welcoming cultural and religious symbols.

In an official statement on X, Lenskart said, "We have heard you. Clearly and openly... These guidelines explicitly and unambiguously welcome every symbol of faith and culture our team members carry - bindi, tilak, sindoor, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, hijab, turban, and more. Not as exceptions. As who we are."

The company further added, "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." It also emphasised that it is "built in Bharat, by Indians, for Indians" and committed to ensuring future policies reflect these values.

Key pointers from Lenskart's new style guide:

• Cultural & Religious Symbols Explicitly Allowed: Bindi, tilak, sindoor, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, and other religious or cultural symbols; hijab, turban, and other head coverings worn for personal, cultural, medical, or religious reasons.
• Uniform Requirements: Employees must wear company-issued Lenskart T-shirts (clean, wrinkle-free, well-fitted) paired with plain dark blue jeans (straight, regular, or slim fit) and closed professional footwear in black or dark colours. Socks are mandatory.
• Grooming & Hygiene Standards: Hair should be clean, neat, and tied back if it interferes with work; facial hair must be well-groomed; nails should be trimmed; daily hygiene is required. Makeup, if used, should remain suitable for customer-facing roles.
• Inclusivity Commitment: The policy states it "fully respects personal, cultural, and religious expression" and allows "reasonable accommodation for religion, culture, disability, pregnancy, or medical needs." Guidelines will be applied consistently, with coaching for minor issues and escalation to HR without retaliation.
• Overall Objective: To maintain a "welcoming, trustworthy, and professional store environment" while recognising diversity as an integral part of Lenskart's workplace culture.

The company added that the updated guidelines will be incorporated into all training modules and internal communications across its retail network.