Spread India's Glorious Cultural & Spiritual Heritage
Introduction:
India’s rich cultural heritage is adorned with numerous ancient wisdom traditions that have stood the test of time. Among these treasured legacies is Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural science that holds the key to creating harmonious living spaces. Vastu Shastra, with its roots dating back thousands of years, provides a blueprint for designing buildings and arranging spaces in alignment with natural forces. Let’s delve into the depths of this profound knowledge and discover its timeless relevance even in the modern world.
Origins and Philosophy:
Vastu Shastra originated in the Indian subcontinent and is believed to be as old as civilization itself. The term “Vastu” translates to “dwelling” or “building” in Sanskrit, while “Shastra” means “science” or “knowledge.” Thus, Vastu Shastra can be understood as the science of building or architecture. Its core philosophy revolves around creating balance and harmony between humans and the environment they inhabit.
Principles and Elements:
At the heart of Vastu Shastra lies the belief that everything in the universe is composed of five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space. These elements are represented in various aspects of a building’s design, including its layout, orientation, and proportions. Vastu Shastra aims to optimize the flow of positive energies by aligning these elements with the cardinal directions and cosmic forces.
The fundamental principles of Vastu Shastra guide the positioning of rooms, entrances, windows, and even the placement of furniture within a space. The science emphasizes the importance of natural light, proper ventilation, and the use of natural materials to enhance the well-being and harmony of occupants.
Benefits and Applications:
Vastu Shastra is not limited to residential dwellings; its principles can be applied to a wide range of structures, including temples, palaces, and even entire cities. The science offers numerous benefits when implemented correctly. These include:
a. Promoting Physical and Mental Well-being: Vastu-compliant spaces are believed to foster physical and mental health, encouraging a sense of tranquility and balance. Properly aligned rooms and structures are thought to enhance energy levels, promote better sleep, and alleviate stress.
b. Enhancing Prosperity and Success: Vastu Shastra suggests specific placements for rooms and objects to attract positive energies and abundance. It is believed that following these guidelines can promote financial well-being, career growth, and success in various endeavors.
c. Facilitating Harmonious Relationships: Vastu Shastra recognizes the impact of the physical environment on human interactions. By optimizing the layout and arrangement of spaces, it aims to nurture harmonious relationships within families and communities.
Relevance in the Modern World:
While ancient in its origins, Vastu Shastra continues to be relevant and practiced in modern times. Its principles are embraced by architects, interior designers, and homeowners who seek to create living and working environments that resonate with balance and positive energy. The integration of Vastu Shastra into contemporary architecture showcases its adaptability and timeless wisdom.
It is important to note that Vastu Shastra is not a rigid set of rules; rather, it provides guidelines that can be adapted to different cultural, geographical, and climatic contexts. It encourages individuals to create spaces that reflect their unique needs while respecting the underlying principles of balance and harmony.
Optimal Placement of Spaces in Vastu Shastra: Bathrooms, Toilets, Pooja Rooms, Money Lockers, Kitchens, Bedrooms, and Dining Areas
In Vastu Shastra, the placement of different spaces within a house is believed to impact the energy flow and overall well-being of the occupants. While the specific guidelines may vary depending on the Vastu tradition or the individual consultant, here are some general recommendations for the placement of key areas in a house:
Bathroom and Toilet:
Ideally, bathrooms and toilets should be located in the northwest or southeast corners of the house. It is advised to avoid placing them in the northeast, center, or southwest areas. Additionally, ensure that the bathroom and toilet doors do not face the main entrance or the kitchen.
Pooja Place (Prayer Room):
The northeast corner of the house is considered highly auspicious for the placement of a pooja room or prayer area. This corner is associated with spiritual energy and is believed to enhance the positive vibrations in the house. The idols or sacred objects should face east or west while being placed in the prayer room.
Money Locker or Safe:
For storing valuables, including a money locker or safe, the southwest corner of the house is considered ideal in Vastu Shastra. This corner is associated with stability and security. Ensure that the locker or safe is placed against a solid wall and faces the north direction for prosperity.
Kitchen:
According to Vastu Shastra, the southeast corner of the house is recommended for the kitchen. The cooking stove should ideally be placed in the southeast direction, with the cook facing east while preparing meals. Avoid placing the kitchen directly in front of the main entrance or next to the toilet.
Bedroom:
The southwest corner of the house is considered the most suitable for the master bedroom. This direction is associated with stability, rest, and rejuvenation. Other bedrooms can be placed in the south or west directions. It is advisable to avoid bedrooms in the northeast corner as it is believed to disrupt sleep and cause health issues.
Dining Space:
The dining space is ideally located in the northwest or west direction of the house. This placement is believed to encourage healthy digestion and positive social interactions during meals. The dining table should not be placed against a wall that is shared with a bathroom or toilet.
It’s important to note that these guidelines serve as general recommendations and can be adapted based on the specific layout and requirements of each house. While adhering to Vastu principles, it is also essential to prioritize functionality, practicality, and personal preferences while designing and arranging the spaces within a home. Consulting with a Vastu expert can provide further insights and personalized recommendations for your specific needs.
The Significance of Main Entry Door Placement in Vastu Shastra: Guiding Energy Flow and Inviting Prosperity
According to Vastu Shastra, the main entry door, also known as the “mukhya dwaar” or “entrance door,” holds great significance as it is considered the primary gateway for energy to enter the house. Here are some guidelines for the placement of the main entry door in Vastu Shastra:
Direction:
The ideal direction for the main entrance door is considered to be in the northeast, east, or north directions. These directions are associated with positive energy flow and are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to the occupants. The door should preferably face one of these directions.
Avoiding Obstructions:
It is important to ensure that the main entry door is not obstructed by any obstacles such as trees, poles, or structures. Unobstructed access to the main door allows for the free flow of energy into the house. Also, avoid having a wall or any other structure directly in front of the entrance door.
Auspicious Symbols and Decorations:
To attract positive energy, it is common to adorn the main entrance door with auspicious symbols and decorations. This can include the use of religious symbols, torans (door hangings), or auspicious rangoli designs. These elements are believed to invite positive vibrations into the home.
Threshold:
The threshold or doorstep of the main entry door holds significance in Vastu Shastra. It is recommended to keep the threshold clean and well-maintained. Avoid placing any objects or clutter near the entrance, as it may hinder the smooth flow of energy.
Lighting:
Having adequate lighting near the main entrance door is considered auspicious. It is advisable to have well-lit exteriors and a properly illuminated porch or entrance area. Good lighting not only enhances the aesthetics but also creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Security:
While following Vastu guidelines, it is equally important to prioritize the security and safety of the house. Ensure that the main entrance door is sturdy, well-maintained, and equipped with a reliable locking system.
It is important to note that these guidelines provide a general understanding of the principles followed in Vastu Shastra. However, the specific recommendations may vary based on factors such as the individual’s birth chart, the geographical location of the house, and other contextual factors. Consulting with a Vastu expert can provide personalized guidance and suggestions for the main entry door placement based on your specific requirements.
Conclusion:
Vastu Shastra stands as a testament to the profound understanding ancient Indian civilizations had of the interplay between human beings and their environment. It reflects the deep-rooted belief that humans are an integral part of the cosmic fabric, and their well-being is intricately connected to the natural forces that surround them.
By acknowledging the influence of the spaces we inhabit on our physical, mental, and spiritual states, Vastu Shastra provides a framework for creating harmonious living spaces. It goes beyond aesthetics, emphasizing the importance of balance, flow, and energy. Through aligning our homes and structures with the rhythms of nature, we can harness positive energies and nurture a harmonious coexistence between individuals and their environment.
Vastu Shastra offers a holistic approach to architecture and design, integrating ancient wisdom with modern living. It serves as a guiding principle for architects, interior designers, and homeowners alike, allowing them to create spaces that resonate with balance, well-being, and positive vibrations.
In embracing the principles of Vastu Shastra, we tap into the timeless wisdom of ancient Indian civilizations, recognizing the profound interplay between humans and their environment. By honoring this connection and crafting our living spaces accordingly, we can cultivate harmony, happiness, and a deep sense of belonging in our modern lives.
Spread India's Glorious Cultural & Spiritual Heritage
FAQs
What is Indian ancient wisdom? ›
Ancient wisdom informs traditional knowledges that guide Indigenous communities on how to interact with the world.
What is the meaning of Vastu? ›The Sanskrit word vāstu means a dwelling or house with a corresponding plot of land. The vrddhi, vāstu, takes the meaning of "the site or foundation of a house, site, ground, building or dwelling-place, habitation, homestead, house". The underlying root is vas "to dwell, live, stay, reside".
How did Vastu Shastra originate? ›The art of Vastu originates in the Stapatya Veda, a part of the Atharva Veda. It used to be a purely technical subject and it was only confined to architects (Sthapatis) and handed over to their heirs.
Who wrote Vastu Shastra? ›From ancient literature, we gather that Vastu was treated as the science of construction of temples and royal palaces. This book was written during 'Guptha' kingdom by Varahamihira. This great work has hundred and six chapters, about all subjects of human life.
What is the meaning of ancient wisdom? ›ancient wisdom in British English
noun. pre-Christian knowledge, philosophy, and beliefs.
Ancient wisdom for modern living provides insight and practical answers to today's social, economic, and personal problems. Our survival's basic answers might lie precisely in the very indigenous communities that the global corporate project is rapidly destroying.
Does Vastu work in USA? ›Vastu works everywhere. ( content from www.subhavaastu.com). East to West and North to South.
How to choose Vastu for your home? ›- Use superior-quality wood to construct the entrance.
- Avoid placing any fountain or water-centric decoration outside the main door.
- Avoid installing a shoe rack or dustbin outside the entrance.
- Avoid constructing a bathroom near the main door.
North-east is considered the ideal vastu direction for house.
Who should sleep in master bedroom? ›As per Vastu, only married couples should occupy the master bedroom, if it is a family that consists of married couples and other members who are unmarried. A regular-shaped bedroom is better than one with cuts and shapes made to beautify the look of the room.
Which direction is best for sleeping? ›
To achieve balance, your head should point southward while you sleep, in line with the Earth's electromagnetic pull. Ideally, your entire bedroom would be oriented south as well. Some research has shown that those who sleep in the north-south position also take longer.
Why is Vastu important for home? ›Vastu promotes internal peace and calm and it can also promote cooperative relationship among the dwellers that live inside the structure. Vastu, by evoking the five elements and providing a living space that is clean and clutter free, can also enhance your mental skills to a large extent.
What are the principles of Vastu? ›- Shape: The rooms of your house should preferably be square or rectangular.
- Room Basics: Rooms should be airy, well lit, bright, and clean. ...
- Home Centre: The centre of the house should be an empty space.
- Stairs and Furniture: ...
- Water: ...
- Dining Table: ...
- Mirror Placement:
Home is a place where we will need to give it some time and energy to create a beautiful environment not only for design and decor but for enjoyment and relaxation. Therefore, vastu for home really matters as it is the area that excites us and prepares us to face a day full of energy and excitement.
Is Vastu and Feng Shui same? ›Vastu Shastra was an architectural plan but it also consisted of Hindu, Indo-Islamic and Buddhist beliefs. Feng Shui is a Chinese Pseudoscientific practice which includes the involvement of various invisible entities of the universe with architectural designs and plans.
What is the symbol of ancient wisdom? ›In some cultures, the owl is heralded as a symbol of strength, prosperity, and knowledge.
What are the ancient wisdom traditions? ›The Ancient Wisdom Traditions tell us that happiness lies in wanting what we have, loving what we do, and enjoying being who we are. The wisdom traditions hold two premises: Wisdom is the search for a long-term happiness, and wisdom includes the ability to see that this happiness depends on our own actions.
Is wisdom only from God? ›The Guide to the Scriptures found on ChurchofJesusChrist.org explains that wisdom is “the ability or gift from God to judge correctly. A person gains wisdom through experience and study and by following God's counsel. Without God's help, man does not have true wisdom.”
What is the greatest source of wisdom? ›- Open-mindedness. Openness is considered a typical personality trait of wise individuals. ...
- Empathy. ...
- Self-reflection. ...
- A balanced approach. ...
- Managing uncertainty. ...
- Wisdom in aging. ...
- Wisdom develops through mastery of crises. ...
- Seeing the bigger picture.
Wisdom is rare because it is too hard to define, too elusive, too idealistic, or just too noble and therefore presumably unattainable.
Why wisdom is more powerful than knowledge? ›
The primary difference between the two words is that wisdom involves a healthy dose of perspective and the ability to make sound judgments about a subject while knowledge is simply knowing. Anyone can become knowledgeable about a subject by reading, researching, and memorizing facts.
What direction do Indians want their house to face? ›The ideal home [based on Indian culture], the front door should face east and the back door should face west, because the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. Q: How else did Indian culture factor into the process?
Why should your house face east? ›A feng shui house facing east is like an open front door inviting healthy chi inside. In classical feng shui, the east sector governs your health and an east-facing house can generate auspicious energy for not just health good luck, but also wealth luck.
Which corner is wealth in Vastu? ›As per Vastu Shastra, one of the best ways to ensure financial stability is to grow your wealth in the earth corner of the home —the south-west. All your jewellery, money and important financial documents must be kept in the south-west (store such things in a cupboard or safe), facing north or north-east.
What should be placed in front of main door? ›Your entrance gate should have a threshold, (wood or marble), as it is said that it allows positive energy to pass through and absorbs negative energy. You can even put a rangoli on the floor in front of the main door, as it is considered auspicious and invites good fortune.
How to bring positive energy in home according to Vastu? ›Fresh air and sunlight aids positive energy at home. So, ensure that you keep the home's windows open, for some time in the morning. According to Vastu principles, there should not be any dark corners at home. If any space does not have sufficient natural sunlight, ensure it has adequate artificial light.
Which is the best entrance for a house? ›The entrance door of your home should be facing the north-east direction. The morning sunlight entering your home through the main door is very significant in Vastu shastra. Hence, the north-eastern corner of the home is the best and the right location to place your entrance door.
What should not be kept at home according to Vastu? ›It is believed that such things severely and deeply impact our lives. Avoid pictures, paintings and sculptures of animals and birds like pigs, snakes, donkeys, eagles, owls, bats, vultures, pigeons and crows. According to Vastu, a couple's bedroom should not exhibit even a single bird or animal.
Which God photo to keep in home? ›Like, the photos of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Lord Mahesh, Lord Indra, Suryadev, and Kartikeyan, should be placed in the pooja room in the east direction. Lord Ganesh, Durga Maa, Bhairav, and Kuber photos and idols should be placed facing the north direction in the pooja room.
Which floor is best according to Vastu? ›Which floor is best as per Vastu? My Vastu consultant suggested that the ground floor, first, second, third, and fourth floor are the best floors to live in according to Vastu. Any apartments above the fourth floor are devoid of water elements which creates a tussle in a relationship.
What side of bed should wife sleep on? ›
6. According to vastu, the wife should sleep on the left side of her husband, for a loving and smooth relationship.
What do you put under your pillow for good luck? ›You need to keep gold or silver ornaments under your pillow. This is highly beneficial, as it can remove any kind of a bad luck from your Kundali. Apart from this, you can also keep a bronze water bowl under your bed for better results.
What is the best color for bedroom according to Vastu? ›The best colours for bedroom walls as per Vastu are the following colours; blue, indigo, green, yellow, purple, pink, red, orange, brown, grey and last but not least white.
Which side is best for bathroom? ›The best direction for constructing a bathroom as per vastu is in the north-west section of the home as it supports the elimination of waste.
Which side we should not keep our head while sleeping? ›Sleeping with your head pointing North can also disrupt your blood circulation and lead to disturbed sleep. In order to prevent such a scenario, it is better to avoid sleeping with your head facing North.
Is it healthier to sleep on right or left side? ›Sleeping on your left side is thought to have the most benefits to your overall health. Still, either side can offer benefits in terms of sleep apnea and chronic lower back pain relief. You don't have to stick with one side the entire night. Feel free to start on your left side and see how your body feels.
Why is vastu important in India? ›In the present times, Vaastu Shastra is popular across the world. The reason behind this is the universal need for peace and harmony, which the application of Vaastu Shastra in home construction and design is supposed to bring along with promises of good health, wealth and happiness in life.
What if vastu is not good? ›Bad effects of a bad vastu complaint North West region could lead to legal and mental problems, heart disease and even untimely death in some extreme cases. South East: Having a main entrance, bore well or septic tank in the south east direction offers negative results as per vastu guidelines.
Which part of the house is important? ›The foundation on which a house is built is the most crucial element for it, regardless of how big or tiny it is. If the house is not built on a stable foundation, the foundation will break with time, causing harm to the house's internal and external walls.
What are the 5 elements of Vastu? ›Commonly known as the science of architecture, Vastu Shastra revolves around five major elements- Fire, Earth, Water, Air and Space.
How to become rich according to Vastu? ›
If you wish for financial abundance in your life, place your lockers or safes in the southwest corner of your home. This area denotes the earth element, ensuring stability. Moreover, the locker in your house should never open toward the west or south directions. Ignoring this can result in a heavy outflow of money.
What are the 3 types of Vastu? ›There are 3 types of Vaastu- srishti, chikitsa and vardhamana. In each of these types of vaastu, there is an element of integration between the occupant and the building, between the environment energies and the lifestyle of the people.
What do we call Vastu in English? ›वस्तु • (vastu) n. a thing. any really existing or abiding substance or essence, thing, object, article. seat, place. matter, circumstance.
Which side should husband sleep as per Vastu? ›Try to place the bed with some space on both sides. The husband should be on the right side of the bed, and the wife should be on the left.
What is the importance of 5 elements in Vastu? ›According to Vastu Shastra for home, there are five vastu elements in the universe. Fire, water, air, earth and space. The balance and propriety of these five elements bring prosperity to living beings. That is why there is so much emphasis on vastu.
Which religion believes in Vastu? ›Vastu, crafts and architecture are traditionally attributed to the divine Vishwakarma in the Hindu pantheon.
Which direction is wealth in feng shui? ›The feng shui Bagua (energy map) has an area dedicated to wealth. It's called Xun in Chinese and it's the top left corner of the Bagua. When you stand in your bedroom door (or the front door to your home), the far left back corner is the wealth corner.
Which direction is prosperity? ›According to Vastu Shastra, the lord of the north direction is Kuber, also known as the god of wealth. Therefore, money or safe locker should be kept in this direction of the house.
How human values based on ancient Indian wisdom explain it? ›Explanation of human values based on ancient Indian wisdom. India is conferred with an abundance of value-established living conditions in the form of scriptures, religion or manners of living, culture, ancestry, saints, and sorcerers over the ages. These value-based living are worth imitating and lasting in nature.
What is the ancient Hindu text of wisdom? ›The Vedas are ancient Hindu texts, constituting the oldest written material of Sanskrit literature and scriptures ever available to Hinduism. Composed in Vedic Sanskrit, these texts are considered to be apauruseva; meaning, "not of a man, but of a superhuman" or "authorless".
Which is the ancient Indian philosophy? ›
These are known as Vaishesika, Nyaya, Samkhya, Yoga, Purva Mimansa and Vedanta or Uttara Mimansa. These six systems of philosophy are said to have been founded by sages Konada, Gotama, Kapila, Patanjali, Jaimini and Vyasa, respectively. These philosophies still guide scholarly discourse in the country.
What is the India symbol of wisdom? ›Seval is the noble red rooster who heralds each dawn, calling all to awake and arise. He is a symbol of the imminence of spiritual unfoldment and wisdom.
What are the values of Indian heritage and culture? ›These values include respect for elders, belief in reincarnation, and a focus on dharma (righteous living). Hindus also believe in karma, which is the belief that a person's actions in this life will determine their destiny in the next life.
What can we learn from ancient India? ›Detailed knowledge of anatomy, embryology, digestion, metabolism, physiology, genetics, immunity, psychology and etiology can be found in many ancient Indian texts. Some of Europe's greatest discoveries were first made in India thousands of years earlier, before Europe even existed.
What are important values for Indians? ›- Diversity.
- Pride.
- Innovativeness.
- Adaptability.
- Harmony.
- Modesty.
- Light-heartedness.
Saraswati (Sanskrit: सरस्वती, IAST: Sarasvatī) is the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, speech, wisdom, and learning.
Who is the God of wisdom in Hindu religion? ›Ganesha, also called Vinayaka and Ganapati, is a son of Shiva and Parvati. He is regarded to be a god of wisdom, and the remover of all obstacles.
What are the Hindu sources of wisdom and stories? ›Traditionally, the Upanishads, the Bhagavadgita, and the Brahmasutras are considered the three most important sources (prastana traya) to corroborate or confirm the validity of any belief, truth or practice of Hinduism.
What is the spirituality of Indian philosophy? ›Indian philosophies share many concepts such as dharma, karma, samsara, dukkha, renunciation, meditation, with almost all of them focusing on the ultimate goal of liberation of the individual from dukkha and samsara through diverse range of spiritual practices (moksha, nirvana).
What religion and philosophy developed in ancient India? ›Buddhism. Buddhism is an ancient Indian religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama Buddha.
What is the root of Indian philosophy and culture? ›
Indian philosophy is very rich, ancient and has its roots in the Vedic period. The great rishis or sages of India lived a secluded life in the forests and meditated on the ultimate truth or the nature of reality.
What are the 3 symbol of India? ›| Symbol: | Name: |
|---|---|
| National Animal | Royal Bengal Tiger |
| National Heritage Animal | Indian Elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) |
| National Aquatic Animal | Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) |
| National Reptile | King Cobra (Ophiophagus hanna) |
The magnificent tiger, Panthera tigris is a striped animal. It has a thick yellow coat of fur with dark stripes. The combination of grace, strength, agility and enormous power has earned the tiger its pride of place as the national animal of India.