CHANDOA
Chandoa literally means a cover with the inscription of a moon on it. It has its origin in Islamic political culture. It was a canopy spread over the Muslim kings and emperors while sitting on throne. It signifies protection of God (in Islam, moon is symbol of Allah, the Islamic name of God).
In Gurdwaras too, a canopy spread above Guru Granth Sahib; but, it was used to protect Guru Granth Sahib from sun, rain, wind etc.
A Chandoa is made of fine cloth, sometimes even silk, and may be embroidered too. It has, however, nothing to do with spirituality or religion. A simple but neat and clean Chandoa or embroidered Chandoa has no difference of value.
Chandoa is also regarded as synonymous of Chanani and Chandani (all the three have root in the word moon i.e. Chann/Chand in Punjabi).
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)