Vastu Shastra is a logical Indian science that deals with the ancient tradition of architecture. It is the science of construction and the traditional Hindu architectural system where the emphasis is laid in the directional alignments. Vastu Shastra, as is practised presently, is based on the 125 verses contained in "Brihat Samhita" of Varahamihira. This very point indicates the vital link between Jyotish and Vastu.
Hindu philosophy considers nature and God synonymous; hence, it becomes all the more significant to build a home according to the principles of Vastu Shastra so that man can exist harmoniously with nature. There are 2 main branches of Vastu Shastra: "Manav Shilpa Shastra" relating to construction of buildings and "Deva Shilpa Shastra" dealing with the principles of constructing temples etc.
Origin of Vastu Shastra
The origin of Vastu Shastra is steeped in legends. It is said that Lord Brahma was the first recipient of this knowledge from Lord Shiva as a part of the Vedas, just like He received the knowledge of "Jyotish". And then the knowledge of Vatu Shastra was gradually spread through the munis, seers and sages of ancient India. However, traditionally the foundation of Vastu is ascribed to the mythical sage Mamuni Mayan.
Etymology of Vastu Shastra
The expression Vastu Shastra has its root in the Sanskrit term "Vastu" which means any really existing or abiding substance or essence. In the context of this ancient science of architecture, "Vastu" also mean the site or foundation of a house, site, ground, building or dwelling-place or habitation. The term "Shastra" however means science, doctrine or teaching.
Principles of Vastu Shastra
Vastu Shastra follows the principle that postulates that in the world everything, substance, man and animals, are made from the "Panchabhuta" that is the 5 basic elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space. These 5 elements have close relationship with man and his environment. Nature has given them their proper place according to merit. Hence it is necessary that man, too, grant a proper place to these elements in the space where he resides.
Vastu Purusha Mandala
An integral part of Vaastu Shastra is formed by "Vastu Purusha Mandala" which refers to the diagrammatic and mathematical concepts to generate designs. It comprises metaphysical plan of the building including the supernatural forces. "Purusha" refers to power, energy, soul or cosmic man while "Mandala" means any chart or plan symbolically representing the cosmos.
Omens of Vastu Shastra
It is believed that both positive and negative forces prevail in nature. Vastu Shastra helps in generating the positive forces within the building. There are several norms that can help an individual built a house where he or she will be able to derive mental peace.
While applying Vastu Shastra one must remember that it is important to follow its norms while buying a plot of land or a building. According to this science the earth is divided primarily into East, West, North and South and the sub directions South-east, South-west, North-west and North-east. Every direction has its own importance in Vastu Shastra. Based on these 8 directions, the principle of "Ashta Sutra" has been formulated. Each of these direction are said to be controlled by a particular Hindu god. Based on this notion Vastu Shastra advices what kind of construction should take place in each of these directions.
Besides these, Vastu Shastra also deals with numerous norms that can guide an individual to select and buy a proper plot or house. Several ways are suggested to deal with accursed buildings, auspicious and inauspicious omens and others. Whether there are problems with a Junction plot, L type plot, building material or the flat system, Vastu Shastra has all kinds of solutions to problems related to such elements. Unifying science, art, astronomy and astrology, it can be said that Vastu Shastra is perfect as an ancient mystic science for designing and building.
