Chaur Sahib is an implement normally found next to the Manji Sahib where the Guru Granth is placed. The chaur is used to fan the Granth as a sign of reverence and respect for the scriptures. The chaur is usually constructed from yak hair mounted in a wooden or metal handle. The sevadar (volunteer) respectfully waves the Chaur Sahib above the Granth as a sign of respect and dedication.

It was common practice in Punjab for the younger members of the family to perform seva for their elders by waving fans during the hot weather months. During this earlier period, the chaur was made of peacock feather or wood and canvas .

This tradition was also used with the kings, nobles and Gurus and is now used with the Guru Granth Sahib. It was also a tradition used for . The use of the hair from a yak’s tail was one of the royal symbols of Ghengis Khan.

These days, the seva element has taken on a more important and overriding role. The Sikhs treat the Guru Granth Sahib as a “living Guru” and so all the traditions that would be accorded to a “human Guru”, of ancient times, are continued as far as possible.

Rajesh Kumar of Amritsar has been making the Chaur Sahib since his school days. He is the third generation involved in this work. His father Ved Prakash and grandfather Durga Das were also metal smiths and made the Chaur Sahib for various Gurudwaras. They setup their workshop in Guru Bazaar area of Amritsar. His brother, Rakesh Kumar and nephew are also continuing with the same craft. They work with various metals such as copper, brass, bronze and silver.

Besides the Chaur Sahib holder/ handle, which are usually silver plated, they also make silver utensils, doors, murtis etc. Besides Gurudwaras and temples of Punjab and neighbouring states, they also get orders from individual clients.