Vastu shastra is a centuries-old Indian architectural technique. Temples, palaces, and even humble houses and offices were built using its concepts. Vastu teaches the fundamentals of construction, particularly in harnessing natural energy for the betterment of home and society.
Vastu shastra means the science of architecture. It is an architectural system based on ancient manuscripts. The system details design, layout, measurements, ground preparation, space arrangement, and spatial geometry principles. Vastu uses geometric patterns (yantra), symmetry, and directional alignments. Basically, the designs strive to merge architecture with nature, the relative functions of various structure elements, and ancient beliefs.
VASTHU-SASTRA focuses on getting the most out of the surrounding environment by correctly placing rooms and positioning the entire building. While many consider it a superstition, albeit there is science behind integrating the building with nature.
Continue reading to learn about the significance of Vastu Shastra and how scientific evidence supports it.
Origin of Vastu
Like other traditional architectural sciences such as Feng Shui, Vastu is one of the most ancient architectural belief systems. Vastu focuses on the principles of architecture. It propagates the best use of the environment, particularly elements of the Earth as one of its dominating components.
One can trace Vastu Shastra’s origins to the Vedas, a collection of ancient Hindu literature. The Atharva Veda, in particular, references Vastu Shastra’s ideas, such as the design of dwellings, temples, and other constructions. Over time, Vastu Shastra evolved into a more comprehensive and detailed knowledge system. The Brihat Samhita and Vishwakarma Vastu Shastra are two of the most prominent Vastu Shastra texts.
Earlier, Vastu Shastra was a technical subject reserved for architects (Sthapatis). They observed the effect of sunrays at various times of the day and summarized their findings. These findings are expounded throughout the epics as the principles of construction, architecture, and sculpture.
Vastu means dwelling, and in the modern sense, it refers to all buildings, regardless of their use, such as residences, industries, business establishments, hotels, and so on. Vastu is as scientific as it is rational. It is unchangeable as it is based on directions.
Vastu knowledge has a vast base of remedial Vastu methodologies. They help remove all types of flaws and inadequacies in the land, property, or its interior arrangements, as well as the surroundings. Vastu principles and dos and don’ts are simple to apply to any building, from homes to large structures.
Principles of Vastu Shastra
Vastu Shastra is a ‘Shastra’ or logical Science founded on observations, facts, and natural laws. Evidently, the basis for its principles is the belief that a building’s design and layout can have a substantial impact on the well-being and prosperity of its residents. The practice considers elements such as the building’s orientation, the layout of rooms and furnishings, and the usage of colours and materials.
Vastu Shastra combines the five basic elements – Earth, water, fire, air, and sky – to produce a positive environment. Vasthu concepts in architecture improve health, wealth, energy, and prosperity while making the living and working environment more pleasant.
Vastu Shastra employs Mandala concepts in its principles. Per Mandala, the placement of rooms and building components must be in a circular or square pattern. The placement generates balance in the structure and its occupants.
Here are some of the key principles of Vastu Shastra:
Orientation
In Vastu Shastra, the orientation of a building is very important. The main entrance should face east, north, or northeast, as these orientations offer good energy and luck. South-facing doorways are often regarded as unfavourable due to their association with bad energy.
Room placement
Each room in a building serves a unique purpose and should in a specific direction. The kitchen, for example, should be in the southeast corner of the structure, as this promotes good health and prosperity. Bedrooms should be in the southwest part of the building to offer a sense of stability and security.
The flow of energy
The flow of energy, or “prana,” is significant in Vastu Shastra. The positioning of furniture, objects, and structures should allow a free flow of energy throughout the structure. All in all, clutter, impediments, and restricted areas interrupt energy flow and have negative consequences.
Elements
Vastu Shastra recognizes five elements and their effects on the physical environment. The elements are Earth, water, fire, air, and space. One must balance and harmonise these elements in the design of a building. For e.g., as water is associated with the northeast corner of a structure. Placing a water feature such as a fountain or aquarium at this corner brings positive energy.
Colours
Likewise, colours play a significant role in Vastu Shastra. Each colour represents a distinct energy and mood. Red is associated with passion and excitement, while blue is with peace and tranquillity. Inhabitants should carefully choose colours to produce harmony in the environment.
Vastu in architecture and its application
Vastu Shastra originated in India about 5,000 years ago. The concepts of architecture and housing are present in Yajur Veda called ‘Sthapatha Vidya,’ which translates as the art of building. Many ancient Indian temples were built using Vastu Shastra principles. These temples are a treasure trove of beauty and spiritual significance. They are the finest examples of Indian architecture.
The ancient sciences of architecture are essentially a set of rules and rituals practised by master builders or local artisans. It believes the physical environment significantly impacts the well-being and prosperity of its residents. Architecture applies Vastu Shastra’s ideas in the design and construction of structures. Architects and builders use the principles to construct buildings that are harmonious with nature and promote harmony and balance.
Vastu Shastra – Science or Superstition?
Vastu is a rational explanation of scientific facts and truths. The Vastu is associated with Earth’s elements (Natural Energies). It states that the sources of energy must remain open, and nothing should hinder the flow of energy. Vastu Shastra provides the desirable site and construction characteristics based on the energy flow (‘Prana’ in Sanskrit). Several of the principles are based on cosmic factors, such as the Sun’s path, Earth’s rotation, magnetic field, and so on.
Invisible energies such as electromagnetic fields, ultrasonic and infrared rays, gravity, and radiation impact the space we live in. And Vastu Shastra balances all of these energies for a healthy and productive life. Ancient philosophers’ observation of natural events led to the discovery of natural laws and their impact on human health. These philosophies are the origin of the implementation of Vastu and related systems. The world is becoming more accepting of these concepts, and they are now globally relevant.
Construction nowadays depletes all natural resources. Vedic science teaches us to connect ourselves with the Earth’s elements. The science promotes green building construction through natural materials. It emphasizes the coordination of natural lighting and ventilation to reduce electricity consumption and maximize the use of the Sun’s energy.
Integrating Vastu Shastra concepts into the design and construction process can benefit the AEC sector. They encourage healthy and prosperous living by creating environmentally friendly buildings. Architects and builders can build structures in harmony with the natural environment. They need to employ natural materials, optimise building orientation, including green spaces, enhance the energy efficiency, and manage water resources.
Vastu Shastra principles are a significant component of India’s cultural and spiritual identity. They have highly influenced the country’s architecture and design.
