New Delhi: Even as controversy continues to rage over Lenskart’s alleged policy to ban Bindis and Tilaks for employees, Air India seems to have been hit by some turbulence over a similar issue.
Several screenshots of what appears to be the Air India Cabin Crew Handbook were shared by X user Pranav Mahajan, in which traditional markers such as Bindi, Sindoor, Tilak, and Kalawa (religious thread) are not permitted while on duty.
The post has since gone viral, with many asking why a national carrier is seemingly erasing the cultural identity of its staff, as reported by News18.
Netizens are not happy with Air India’s explanation that its grooming guidelines are designed to meet “international standards” following the airline’s takeover by the Tata Group. These standards are heavily Western-biased, they have argued.
Users are comparing global airline policies and calling for a systematic change.
“Best is to boycott people/ organisations who disrespect Hindu faith even slightly. It is extremely difficult for them to understand and change their mind because of ego and hatred. Let their share prices crash… Tit for tat is the only way…,” a user wrote.
Others shared how most corporates have similar rules. “These rules are typical of any corporate. And some make it pronounced some don’t. That’s why government should have a process framework for corporations in India ensuring Hindu religion is protected.”
Airlines of other religious nations allow for clothing as per their culture, some users have argued.
“Pakistan’s PIA, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabia’s airline have allowed Hijab for air hostess and majority wears that. While its only in India that Hindus are made to feel ashamed of their Hinduness. Time to Change now. No more Hinduphobia,” a user shared on X.
Many people also highlighted how Hindus get discriminated against over religious signage unlike other religions.
“The handbook doesn’t mention the religious attire or markings of non-Hindus. If a Muslim woman staff is allowed to wear a Hijab or a Sikh man a turban, doesn’t that reveal their religious affiliation? Who decided that a Bindi or Tilak or Mangalsutra is optional for Hindus,” one user asked.
“Aviation policies are heavily influenced by Western airline standards, where rings are the default marital symbol but Mangalsutra is an optional Hindu accessory. That bias alone quietly shapes what gets allowed. And people love that bias, you cannot deny,” another one said.
Earlier this week, Lenskart faced a massive boycott call after a similar internal “style guide” leaked. The company claimed the document was an old draft and that they have “no restrictions on religious expression.”
