Should Taj Hotels Establish Guidelines on Sitting and Dress Code?
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Synopsis
In a controversial incident at Taj Hotels, Shradha Sharma questions the lack of clear guidelines on etiquette after being reprimanded for her sitting posture and attire. This raises significant concerns about societal norms and the perception of middle-class individuals in exclusive settings.
Key Takeaways
- Clear guidelines for etiquette and dress codes are essential in fine dining settings.
- Public perception of middle-class individuals often influences how they are treated in exclusive venues.
- Incidents like these can spark broader discussions about class and societal norms.
- Hospitality venues should strive to create an inclusive atmosphere.
New Delhi, Oct 23 (NationPress) Taj Hotels must establish clear guidelines regarding how to sit and what to wear, stated YourStory Founder and CEO Shradha Sharma on Thursday. This statement came after she faced criticism for sitting in a “regular padmasana style” at the five-star hotel's fine dining restaurant House of Ming in the national capital.
In an interview with IANS, Sharma expressed her confusion, stating she "still can't comprehend what was wrong” with her choice of outfit, footwear, and posture.
“This raises a fundamental question about how we define etiquette and manners. If there are rules and regulations, which I believe were not being violated, then they should be documented. Specify that you must sit this way and wear these types of clothes,” Sharma mentioned.
She emphasized that “people are not questioned for being loud or offensive, yet I was insulted while dressed appropriately and wearing suitable footwear.”
For context, Sharma visited the Taj’s fine dining establishment House of Ming for dinner with her sister during Diwali. There, she faced humiliation from the manager, who insisted she sit properly after other guests objected to her sitting cross-legged.
The manager also criticized her attire: a traditional salwar kameez and kolhapuri chappals.
Taj Hotels has yet to comment on the situation.
“Whoever the guest was, where was my offense? Who could see my foot? Where was it visible?” Sharma questioned IANS.
She further argued that if a prominent celebrity or political figure were in her position, they would likely be praised for their humility.
“If a significant male figure were sitting in my place, he would be celebrated for being authentic and grounded. But as a common individual, I face criticism. People say I am a gawar (illiterate) and should go to a dhaba instead.”
In response to social media backlash claiming that sitting cross-legged at a fine dining venue is “unhygienic,” she stated: “What exactly is unhygienic about this?”
“The broader issue is about who belongs and who doesn’t, and why the middle class often feels excluded,” Sharma concluded.
Point of View
It is vital to consider the implications of Shradha Sharma's experience at Taj Hotels. This incident highlights the need for clarity in dress codes and etiquette in fine dining establishments, ensuring that all guests feel welcomed and respected, regardless of their background.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Shradha Sharma at Taj Hotels?
Shradha Sharma faced criticism for her sitting posture and traditional attire while dining at House of Ming, leading her to call for clearer guidelines from Taj Hotels.
What was the public reaction to Sharma's incident?
The incident sparked discussions on social media about etiquette, class perceptions, and the treatment of middle-class individuals in upscale settings.
Did Taj Hotels respond to the criticism?
Taj Hotels declined to comment immediately on the incident involving Shradha Sharma.
