New Delhi, March 3 -- "Bhagwan har jagah hain, or OYO bhi." Translated into English, "God is everywhere, so is OYO." A half-page ad released in a Hindi newspaper by OYO suddenly ignited the internet last week, and #BoycottOYO made it to the top of trending lists. OYO was accused of allegedly hurting religious sentiments. Posts by outraged users and calls for a boycott inundated social media.

As protests escalated, OYO responded that the ad was meant to highlight the company's role in religious tourism rather than offend religious sentiments. "We have immense respect for the diverse faiths and beliefs of our country and celebrate India's rich spiritual traditions," OYO said in a statement. It further announced plans to expand its presence...