India-based eyewear company Lenskart, founded by Peyush Bansal, has released an updated in-store style guide following backlash over its previous policy that banned bindis and tilaks in stores. The new guidelines, issued in Mumbai, aim to address concerns about cultural sensitivity while maintaining a professional retail environment. The controversy began after reports surfaced that some store staff had asked customers to remove traditional Indian markings, sparking a national debate on cultural inclusivity.
What Changed in the New Style Guide
The updated store style guide, released on 12 April 2024, outlines clear rules for both employees and customers. It states that while staff must wear uniforms without religious symbols, customers are allowed to wear traditional attire, including bindis and tilaks, as long as it does not interfere with store operations. The guide also emphasizes that no customer should be asked to remove such items. The policy was introduced after several customers raised concerns on social media, with some claiming they were treated disrespectfully.
Bansal, the founder and CEO of Lenskart, addressed the issue in a public statement, saying, “We are committed to creating a welcoming environment for all customers. The previous policy was not clearly communicated and caused unnecessary confusion.” The statement was posted on Lenskart’s official website and social media channels, marking the first time the company had publicly addressed the controversy.
Context of the Controversy
The controversy first gained traction in late March 2024 when a customer shared a video on Twitter showing a Lenskart employee asking them to remove a bindi before entering a store in New Delhi. The video quickly went viral, prompting widespread criticism from users who accused the company of cultural insensitivity. Some critics argued that the policy disproportionately affected women and religious minorities, while others defended the company, saying it was a matter of workplace uniformity.
The backlash led to a surge in social media activity, with the hashtag #LenskartBindiDebate trending for several days. Several influencers and activists called on Lenskart to clarify its policy. In response, the company launched an internal review of its guidelines, which led to the release of the updated style guide. The revised policy was also shared with all store managers across India, including in cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
What This Means for Lenskart and Its Customers
The updated style guide is seen as a step toward resolving the controversy, but some critics argue it does not go far enough. “The policy is a start, but it still places the onus on customers to comply with store rules,” said Priya Deshmukh, a cultural analyst based in Pune. “There should be more emphasis on training employees to be respectful of diverse cultural practices.”
For Lenskart, the incident highlights the challenges of balancing brand identity with cultural inclusivity. The company, which has expanded its operations to the United States and other international markets, faces increasing pressure to adapt its policies to diverse customer bases. The new style guide is expected to be reviewed again in the next quarter, with a focus on employee training and customer feedback mechanisms.
Looking Ahead
Lenskart has announced that it will conduct a customer feedback survey in May 2024 to assess the effectiveness of the new style guide. The company also plans to hold training sessions for store managers to ensure consistent implementation of the policy. These steps come amid growing public scrutiny of corporate policies on cultural and religious practices.
As the debate continues, the incident has sparked broader conversations about the role of businesses in promoting inclusivity. What Lenskart does next could set a precedent for other companies in India and beyond. For now, customers are advised to check the updated style guide on Lenskart’s website before visiting a store.
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What is the latest news about lenskart issues new store style guide after no bindis controversy?
India-based eyewear company Lenskart, founded by Peyush Bansal, has released an updated in-store style guide following backlash over its previous policy that banned bindis and tilaks in stores.
Why does this matter for economy-business?
The controversy began after reports surfaced that some store staff had asked customers to remove traditional Indian markings, sparking a national debate on cultural inclusivity.
What are the key facts about lenskart issues new store style guide after no bindis controversy?
It states that while staff must wear uniforms without religious symbols, customers are allowed to wear traditional attire, including bindis and tilaks, as long as it does not interfere with store operations.
