What is the role of the chaur sahib in a Sikh wedding and who waves it?

Short answer

The chaur sahib is a ceremonial whisk that is waved over the holy scripture during the Sikh wedding service. It is usually waved by a granthi or a volunteer from the gurdwara, not by the couple.

The chaur sahib is a small ceremonial whisk with a silk or cloth cover and a handle. It is waved gently over the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, to show respect. The motion keeps dust and insects away from the holy book.

During the anand karaj, the chaur sahib is waved at specific moments, especially when the scripture is placed on the takht, the raised throne. This act honours the scripture as the living Guru. It is a sign of humility and service.

The person who waves the chaur sahib is typically a granthi, the reader and officiant, or a volunteer from the gurdwara. In some gurdwaras, a family member or a trusted volunteer may be asked to perform this duty. The couple themselves do not usually wave the chaur sahib. If you would like a family member to do it, ask the gurdwara in advance, as rules vary by gurdwara.

You do not need to provide the chaur sahib. The gurdwara supplies it as part of its own arrangements. Your role is to take part in the four circumambulations and listen to the hymns. If you have questions about who will wave it, the granthi or gurdwara manager will tell you their practice.