Lecture on Vastu Shastra

Introduction to Vastu Shastra

• Vastu Shastra is a traditional Indian system of architecture.
• Derives from Sanskrit, where "Vastu" means a dwelling or place where people live.
• Also known as Vastu Vidya or Shilpa Shastra.
• Modern equivalent term: architecture.

Core Elements of Vastu

• Vastu consists of aligning structures with the Pancha Mahabhutas (five elements): Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space.
• Four Aspects of Vastu:
  • Bhumi (Earth or Ground): Primary focus in Vastu.
  • Prasada (Temple or Palace): Structural design consideration.
  • Yana (Convenience): Related to mobility or travel.
  • Shayana (Couch or Bed): Comfort and personal space.

Misconceptions in Modern Vastu

• Often mistaken as mere positioning of objects like furniture and doors.
• True Vastu is about harmonious alignment with natural elements.

Goals of Vastu Shastra

• Integrate design and construction with natural forces.
• Optimize structures for their intended use.

Topics Covered in Vastu Shastra

1. Town Planning
   • Site selection.
   • Design of towns and villages.
   • Land use and zoning.
2. Civil Architecture
   • Palaces, houses, and public buildings.
   • Theatres, libraries, and infrastructure.
3. Temple Architecture
   • Temple components and iconography.
   • Idol making.
4. Artistic Elements
   • Paintings, furniture, doors, and sculptures.
5. Other Aspects
   • Qualification of architects.
   • Choice of building materials.
   • Site planning (Vastu Purusha Mandala).

Vastu Texts and Literature

• Kashyapashilpa: Discusses architecture and iconography.
• Narada Shilpa Shastra: Covers road construction, water resources, and town planning.
• Vishwakarma Prakasha, Manasara, Mayamatam: Other significant texts.
  • Mayamatam: One of the oldest texts, attributed to Maya, the architect of Daityas.

Vastu Purusha Mandala

• A fundamental concept in Vastu, representing the site as a living entity.
• Mandala Shape: Always square, considered the plan for all architectural forms.
• Brahmastala: The center of the Vastu Purusha Mandala, aligns structures with natural forces.
• Planning Considerations:
  • Site is divided into squares attributed to deities.
  • Number of squares varies; larger for towns and smaller for individual buildings.
  • Common configurations include 64 or 81 squares.

Types of Square Plans

• Sakala: 1x1 square.
• Pitta and Mahapita: 2x2 or 3x3.
• There are 10 division types in Vastu texts.

Conclusion

• Understanding of Vastu Shastra’s principles and application.
• Preview of upcoming discussions on related Vastu issues.