Study and documentation of Rumala Sahib and Chandoa Sahib offered in Sikh shrines

Abstract

Rumala Sahib is a square or rectangular sheet of fabric to cover the Sikh Scripture, Guru Granth Sahib. A fabric canopy, usually decorated is always hung above the Holy Book. The present research was undertaken to study and document these Sacred Textiles. Data was collected primarily from Punjab and from the adjacent states of Punjab, namely Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi and Chandigarh. A total of 250 respondents were selected from various categories: Head Granthis of Gurdwaras, visitors to Gurdwaras, manufacturers of Rumala Sahib and Chandoa Sahib, workers working in the manufacturing units and shopkeepers. It was found that the tradition of wrapping Holy texts in neat white cotton cloth was started earlier by Sikh Gurus, and fabric canopy was used to cover the Guru from impurities while moving outside, further both the sacred textiles have evolved into a more elaborate heavily embellished textiles the cost of which varies from hundreds to lakhs of rupees. Several artisans, tailors, designers and shopkeepers are involved in designing, manufacturing and marketing of these textiles in domestic and international market. Rumala Sahib and Chandoa Sahib are designed and manufactured in various colour combinations with elaborate embellishments. During various occasions and ceremonies associated with Sikhism like child s naming ceremony, marriage, Baisakhi, Diwali, Gurpurb etc., these are offered in various Sikh Shrines by the devotees that sometimes create a situation of abundance of these textiles in Gurdwaras. The Sikh community is concerned about this issue, as most respondents are aware of the abundance but continue to present them due to their devotion and tradition. The research also aims to raise public awareness and identify solutions for managing the abundance of Rumala Sahib while maintaining their sanctity. newline