Nazia Elahi Khan applies tilak on Lenskart staff amid row over religious symbols

Lenskart faced fresh controversy after Nazia Elahi Khan visited one of its Mumbai showrooms and applied tilak on employees, amid allegations that the company had restricted certain forms of religious expression.

A video circulating on social media shows Khan confronting store staff, including a floor manager identified as Mohsin Khan, over claims that Hindu symbols such as tilak and bindi were discouraged. She is also seen directing those accompanying her to apply tilak and tie sacred threads (kalawa) on employees, while raising slogans and warning of a boycott.

The authenticity of the viral video could not be independently verified.

What triggered the row?

The incident follows controversy over an alleged employee dress code that appeared to allow some religious symbols while restricting others. Claims circulated online that items like hijabs and turbans were permitted, while bindis, tilaks and sacred threads were discouraged.

The issue gained traction after commentator Shefali Vaidya flagged the alleged disparity on social media, sparking debate. Some employees also claimed they were advised during training to avoid wearing religious markers such as tilak or kalawa.

Company response

Amid growing criticism, Lenskart clarified that the document being shared was outdated and did not reflect current policy. Founder and CEO Peyush Bansal said the company does not restrict religious expression.

The firm later released an updated in-store style guide explicitly allowing a wide range of symbols, including bindi, tilak, sindoor, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, hijab and turban. It also expressed regret for any confusion and reiterated that employees are free to express their faith at work.

From online debate to on-ground protest

The controversy began earlier in April when the alleged grooming guidelines surfaced online. Despite the company’s clarification, the issue escalated, with continued criticism and questions over the delay in issuing a clear response.