Outrage in India after Delhi restaurant denies entry to couple over traditional outfit

A restaurant in India's New Delhi has sparked controversy after a couple claimed that they were denied entry for wearing traditional attire.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, the woman is seen wearing a churidaar-kurta set and her partner a T-shirt and trousers as they alleged that they were stopped at the entrance of Tubata, located near the Pitampura metro station. The incident took place on August 3.

"This was our dress, but they stopped us. Others in skimpier clothes were allowed in. The manager misbehaved and insulted Indian culture," the couple said in the clip.

See what is happening in Delhi restaurant Tubata in Pitampura. A couple was denied entry and not allowed to enter just because they were wearing Indian attire! pic.twitter.com/xCw5bFw0Zb

— Rosy (@rose_k01) August 8, 2025

The person recording the video can be heard asking: “Is wearing Indian clothes against our culture? Are their clothes inappropriate? Such restaurants should be shut down immediately if they are against our culture.”

The footage was shared by X user Rosy, who wrote: “See what is happening in Delhi restaurant Tubata in Pitampura. A couple was denied entry just because they were wearing Indian attire!”

After public backlash, Delhi tourism minister Kapil Mishra said the restaurant owner had issued a video apology for the incident and announced special discounts for women in traditional dress on the occasion of Rakshabandhan.

"The owner has now agreed that no such policy dress code will be enforced in the restaurant," Mishra said, adding that a notice has been posted outside the premises stating that guests wearing Indian attire are welcome.