Mr. Gourav Khater - Cardinal Directions of Vaastu

A THESIS ON ALL THE CARDINAL DIRECTIONS OF VAASTU ALONG WITH ITS POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECTS ON THE LIFE OF INDIVIDUALS.

BY GOURAV KHATER

REGISTRATION NO. – 69018

YEAR - 2022

SUBMITTED TO:

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my special thanks of gratitude to my Professor Mr.Sanat Kumar Datta of Anuradha Future Point, Kolkata (W.B.) India who had given me the golden opportunity to do this wonderful project on the topic (A Thesis on all the cardinal directions Vaastu along with its positive and negative effects on the life of individuals) which also helped me in doing a lot of research and I came to know about so many new things for which I am thankful.

I express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Arun Bansal, President, of All India Federation of Astrologers' Societies, New Delhi for his scholarly guidance and for providing us with such a course to enhance our knowledge in the field of Vaastu

I thank everyone who had given faith in me for their past Vaastu-related work which had helped me in imparting my knowledge in research in the field of Vaastu for the past 7 years which had been a great treasure in conducting my research paper.

I feel gifted for the abundant love, care, and support extended by all family members through the pursuit of my research work.

GOURAV KHATER

INTRODUCTION

The word Vaastu refers to a shelter, either for the self or deity. The meaning of Vaastu is dwelling, which is the home of god and humans.

Vaastu Shastra means the science (shastra) of the construction of a Vaastu whereas Shilpa refers to the art of making it aesthetic and appealing to the senses of the inhabitants of the house/ building. Vaastu shastra is based on various energies that come from the atmosphere like solar energy from the sun, cosmic energy, lunar energy, thermal energy, magnetic energy, light energy, and wind energy. These energies can be balanced to enhance peace, prosperity, and success. If a house is made according to these principles, the inmates enjoy all the happiness in life. If it is against Vaastu principles, it will be a place for all sorts of problems, worries, and no peace. The science of house building is very ancient in India. The knowledge has come down from the creator Brahma through an unbroken succession of sages.

According to the Vishwakarma, the celestial architect, 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. Vaastu Shastra as is practiced presently is based on the 125 verses contained in Brihat Samhita of Varahamihira. This very point indicates the vital link between Jyotish and Vaastu. Unfortunately, what the standard Vaastu experts are applying today is the use of temple architecture in homes and offices. There is a need to use the Astakavarga and othercharts of Vedic Astrology along with Vaastu principles for every individual home provided this is to be designed for a particular person to occupy for a long period. If instead flats and apartments are being designed for the general public, then the standard principles can be used.

Importance of Vaastu:

Vaastu considered the interplay of various forces of nature involving the five elements of earth, water, wind, fire, and ether and strives to maintain equilibrium as these elements influence, guide, and change the living styles of not only human beings but every living being on earth. Vaastu Shastra unifies science, art, astronomy, and astrology, it can also be said as an ancient mystic science for designing and building. Vaastu Shastra helps us to make our lives better and will secure us from things going wrong.

Vaastu Shastra is based on various natural energies:-

➢ Solar Energy from Sun

➢ Lunar Energy from Moon

➢ Earth Energy

➢ Electric Energy

➢ Magnetic Energy

➢ Thermal Energy

➢ Wind Energy

➢ Cosmic Energy

Vaastu can be used for every structure like a room, house, temple, shop industry, town planning, tour, cities, and even for the earth. Vaastu can be used for micro as well as for macro level. Every creature on earth starts its life with sunrise as it performs day & night. Hence there is much importance of the sun in everyone’s life. It gives ultraviolet rays in the morning and infrared rays in the evening which is one basic need to reduce/generate bio-chemical germs, N2/O2/CO2 on earth. Sun

indicates light (illumination) will power, generosity, solar system, luck or fate, mobility, and in the body. It rules over bone, eye, heart, spinal cord, blood circulation, soul, etc. Hence east direction is auspicious; it belongs to lord Indra. North is considered auspicious since magnetic lines of force move from North to South, thus the origin of life.

Authenticity/Facts of Vaastu:

The biggest proof of Vaastu shastra can be found during the time of Ramayana and Mahabharat. Even in the cities of Mohenjodaro and Harappa, the application of Vaastu shastra can be seen. Since science goes far back to the times of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna there are many interesting mythological stories concerning the origin of Vaastu Purusha.

The geographical situation of an area affects nature thus the Vaastu for every place changes. We see that some countries are much more advanced, developed, and prosperous while others are much more backward. Below are the given examples of some countries whose Vaastu changes as per their location.

❖ Japan, the existence of deep water in the North and the East is considered most auspicious according to Vaastu shastra. The eastern side of Japan is widely spread and open. Thus, Japan gets the full benefit of the rays of the sun. This is why Japan is rich and prosperous. There is the sea in the Southeast and south of Japan, which is a place for Fire, this is why it suffered the attack of atomic bombs explosion and earthquakes

❖ If we take Africa as a continent, we all know the northeastern corner of this continent is interjected. The northwest portion is projected, southeast and south have unlimited water, these all conditions are inauspicious according to Vaastu, and that's why African countries are backward, uneducated, and poor. But on the contrary, in the north of this continent, there exists the Mediterranean Sea, which is favorable according to Vaastu. In the eastern part, the river Nile flows and that's why civilization developed in Egypt, and now Egypt got a name and honour for its world-famous pyramids.

❖ At last, let’s discuss our own INDIA, we know we have the Himalayas in the North and Northeast side of our country which is against Vaastu, thus there is a lot of poverty in our country. There is water in the Southwest and southeast side of our nation, thus we have to face the attacks of foreign empires. One thing that makes India famous is that we have our slope towards the east, which is a very favourable and auspicious sign. The location and construction of the famous Balaji Temple, the most prosperous in India, are all according to Vaastu. The most famous prosperous industrial houses have also been studied; The Tata headquarters in Mumbai, Akbarallys the most successful retail store in India.

HISTORY OF VAASTU SHASTRA:

Vaastu Shastra is the Indian science of space and architecture and how we may create spaces and an environment that supports physical & spiritual health and prosperity.

Vaastu Shastra evolved during Vedic times in India. The concept of Vaastu Shastra was transferred to Tibet, South East Asia, and finally to China and Japan where it provided the base for the development of what is now known as Feng Shui.

Vaastu Shastra is the art and science of designing houses, offices, temples, etc that swirl with good energy. Indian Maharajas and Moghul Emperors used Vaastu Shastra when they built their symmetrical palaces, artificial lakes, and geometric courtyards that thirstily absorbed positive energy.

Like feng shui, Vaastu Shastra is based on an octagon with the four directions being the anchors. Hindus believe that gods live in each of the quarters of the house, and govern the rooms, possessions, and activities in these locations.

Vaastu is an inherent energy concept of science. We cannot see energy with our naked eyes but we can realize and see its application in different forms and fashions. Vaastu Shastra uses the forces of natural energies and aims to restore the balance between the home (the microcosm) and the cosmos (the macrocosm).

Vaastu Shastra is not only a science but is a bridge between man and nature, thus teaching us the Art of Living. Just like every subject of the human aspect is governed by rules, regulations, and acts, similarly nature has also got certain key factor principles for the smooth governing of its residents, in which Vaastu Shastra stands for the law of natural energies.

Vaastu, which literally means to live, works on the premise that the earth is a living organism, out of which other living organisms emerge. This life energy is known as Vaastu Purusha. The Vaastu Shastra works for a bounded premise i.e., a house, building, industrial area or shop. The main aim is to form a balance between the outside atmosphere and the atmosphere within the premise. Vaastu Shastra makes use of five elements – prithvi (earth), agni (fire), tej (light), vayu (wind) and akash (ether), the earth’s magnetic fields i.e. the north and the south pole and the sun’s rays.

Vaastu Shastra dates back to the times when the sages lived – probably 6,000 and 3,000 BC. The mention of Vaastu Shastra can be found in

ancient scriptures like the Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Mayamatam, Manasasaar, etc. Ancient Indian architecture depended on this science for the building of almost all the palaces and temples. Although the exact origins of Feng Shui are debatable, it is thought to have originated about five thousand years ago. Scholars have recorded various aspects of Feng Shui as early as the Song Dynasty (960 BC). However, the basic principles of Feng Shui were first written down during the Han dynasty (25 AD).

How Vaastu Shastra works?

Vaastu Shastra works on three principles of design that cover the entire premise. The first one is Bhogadyam, which says that the designed premise must be useful and lend itself to easy application. The second is Sukha Darsham, in which the designed premise must be aesthetically pleasing. The proportions of the spaces and the material used, in the interiors and exteriors of the building – ornamentation, colour, sizes of the windows, doors, and rooms, and the rhythms of projection and depressions – should be beautiful. The third principle is Ramya, where the designed premise should evoke a feeling of well-being in the user. Also, Vaastu Shastra is a complicated form of science put together by seventeen sages. There are certain rules that should be followed while building a house or a building. For instance, the building’s underground water tank or well should be situated in the northeast direction. But, if the building has an overhead tank then it should be placed in the southwest direction. Also, more space should be left to the north and the east of the building compound and less to the south and the west. Open space should be kept around the building and if the plot has a road in the east-north directions, it is better for the inhabitants.

FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS OF THE VAASTU SHASTRA

The fundamentals of the Vaastu Shastra were formed considering the effects of the cosmic forces and the forms of energies. These forces influenced the earth therefore the basis of Vaastu Shastra is based on two important aspects:

1. The five natural elements are the sky, air, fire, water, and earth.

2. The eight cardinal directions are North, South, East, West, North East, North West, South East, and South West.

1.The Five elements of Nature:

The science of Vaastu Shastra considers the world to be comprised of five basic elements termed as 'Panch Mahabhoota'. These elements are as follows:-

Prithvi i.e. the earth

Jala i.e. the water

Vayu i.e. the air

Agni i.e. heat or the fire

Aakash i.e. the space

According to Vaastu Shastra, a perfect balance of these elements can enhance living conditions.

Prithvi (Earth):

The position of Earth is third in order from the sun. The presence of electromagnetism makes it a large magnet in space with the North Pole and the South Pole as the center of attraction. Every living and Nonliving organism on Earth is influenced by its magnetic field and Gravitational pull.

Jala (Water):

Water is in a liquid form and is represented by rain, ocean, sea, and river. It forms a portion of every flora and fauna. Haemoglobin in combination with oxygen forms blood that runs in our bodies.

Vayu (Air):

Air is considered the foundation of life and is a supreme source of life. The comfort value of human beings is directly dependant on the balanced humidity, temperature, pressure, flow, and the composition of the air and its contents.

Agni (Fire):

Fire is symbolised by light and heat which forms an indispensable part of day and night, climatic conditions, radioactivity, avidity, energy, and vigour.

Akasha (Space):

The space or the sky shelters all the elements of nature. It is the primary conductor of all the sources of energy for example light, sound, social energies namely emotional and psychological, and cognitive energies namely intuition and intellect.

There is an unseen relationship among all the above five elements. Thus, various human conditions can be improved by considering the effectiveness of these five basic natural forces while designing buildings. The role of Vaastu Shastra is to combine these elements of nature and balance them with man and matter. Thus, by taking advantage of the gifts bestowed by the nature for making pleasant living and working conditions thereby promoting spiritual well-being and enhancing health and wealth leading to prosperity and happy living.

2.The eight cardinal directions:

Vaastu takes into consideration the eight possible directions after analysing and studying the four co-ordinal and angular directions.

Co-ordinal directions - North, South, East, and West

Angular directions - North-East, North-West, South-East, South-West

The four main directions namely North, South, East, and West represent streams of positive and negative energies. These directions act as either the source or the sink of energy. Hence the orientation and alignment of these forces are prearranged in their zones of impact.

Whereas the sub directions vis-a-vis North-East, South-East, NorthWest, and South-West represent zones of the confluence of two different (positive and negative) energy streams which are at right angles to each other. Any disturbance in the flow of these energies triggers turbulence in the flow of the energy which is aligned to the primary direction.

The Vaastu researchers combined the positive north and east directions with the negative south and west to determine the effects of the subdirections. These directions were then associated with the positions of the deities depending on the results of the effects of the energies.

North-East: + + - Residence of God

North-West: + - Desirable direction

South-East: + - Not desirable direction

South-West: - - Residence of Demon

In Vaastu research, these directions are established with the help of a tool called the Vaastu compass which is a magnetic compass. The building site is first analysed with this tool and later inscribed on the layout to start the process of designing taking into consideration the Vaastu principles. Vaastu affirms that it helps one to tune with nature and derive its free benefits by honouring the five basic elements and the eight cardinal directions.

VAASTU SHASTRA AND THE ENERGY

We are living in an unsteady universe that is moving continuously, for which it requires a huge amount of energy and this energy holds every material present in the universe. Similarly, a man on the earth is tied to nature, and nature is tied to different energies and forces influencing the earth. Such as:

➢ Solar Radiation

➢ Magnetic Field of Earth

➢ Gravitational Force

➢ Intensity and Wind Direction

Every material present in the universe radiates some amount of energy and these energies or forces are influenced by the earth, individually or by combining with each other forming a web of energies.

VAASTU PURUSHA

The Origin of Vaastu Purusha Mandala:

As per Hindu mythology, the supreme creator of the universe is Brahma. He created a cosmic man while experimenting to create life in the universe. This was the ‘Vaastu Purusha and he was no ordinary man. He had an insatiable appetite and thus began to devour anything and everything his eyes set upon.

In no time, he grew so big that his shadow cast a permanent eclipse upon the earth. This ever-growing Vaastu Purusha trigged panic upon the gods too and lord Shiva and Vishnu urged Brahma to intervene before this creature caused the ultimate destruction of the universe.

By this time, Brahma too realized the same and sought help from the Ashta Dikapalakas (these are the god and guardians of the 8 cardinal directions). In total it took 45 gods, including Brahma to pin down the Vaastu Purusha, flat with his face down onto the ground. Brahma held him in the middle and the rest of the god caught hold of its limbs, hands, and other body parts. His head lies towards the northeast and his legs towards the south west.

At this point, the Vaastu Purusha began to cry and solicited Brahma. He pointed out, as he was created by Brahma; every attribute of him is in fact given by Brahma itself; so why is he being punished for it? Brahma agreed with him and decided to give him compensation for this arrangement.

Brahma made Vaastu Purusha an immortal being and an inseparable entity of Earth. He blessed that Vaastu Purusha will be worshipped by mortals who build any sort of structure on Earth, throughout the ages.

And those who refuse to acknowledge the same can be teased by Vaastu Purusha, to his heart’s content. Thus, Vaastu Purusha Mandala was formed.

The Scientific Concept of Vaastu Purusha:

If we look at Vaastu Purusha as two individual words, it will be simple to get the definition straight.

‘Mandala’ is the collective name for a chart or a plan that symbolically represents the universe.

‘Purusha’ alludes to cosmic man, energy, connection, power, or soul.

The Vaastu Purusha Mandala is metaphysical planning of building that subsumes the journey of supernatural forces and heavenly bodies. The Vaastu Purusha Mandala is an imperative part of the Vaastu Shastra.

Mathematically speaking, it is the diagrammatic representation of the design of the architectural design in terms of the star and planet movements. To get a deeper understanding of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala, one must understand the tiny bits of Hindu Cosmology, too.

According to Hindu Cosmology, the square represents the surface of the Earth, which is also the foundation of all Hindu forms. Here, it represents the Earth in four corners explaining a horizontal relationship with the sunset and sunrise (the South and North direction).

The four corners' diagrammatic representation, or the square representation, is called the Chaturbhuji. It represents the Prithivi Mandala.

Such a diagram is quite common in astrological or horoscope charts.

The square plan tells us the position of the planets, sun, moon, constellations, and the specific zodiac sign of a person depending on the time and place of birth.

Vaastu Purusha Mandala

Significance of Vaastu Purusha Mandala:

It is the complete guide for understanding energy core and distribution in the Vaastu. It is an inseparable part of Vaastu shastra and holds a prime significance while conducting Vaastu analysis for residential and commercial properties.

The floor plan of any building, particularly its main gate must be done in accordance with Vaastu Purusha Mandala. If done so, it brings ample prosperity to its occupants.

Usually, Vaastu Purusha Mandala is often depicted in square charts to represent the usual shape of the plot. But for better understanding, however, it is drawn in 360-degree chart format, which is universally more popular.

It comprises of 45 gods, out of which 13 are inner gods and the rest 32 are outer gods. They represent various aspects of life. The placement of rooms and other sections of the home, channels the attributes of the deity that rules the particular section.

The inner 13 deities of the Vaastu Purusha mandala are as follows:

1. Brahma - It is the central space of the Vaastu. It is also known as Brahmasthan. Brahma is the core creator, main manifesto, and root of all the energy in the universe. It is highly recommended not to mess with it. Thus, it is best-left void in any Vaastu.

(From 2 to 5)

From Brahma emerge 4 main energy fields in 4 cardinal directions, i.e. in North, East, South and West. In this sequence this energy fields are-

2. Bhudhar - It offers energy to initiate or begin any work or task.

3. Aryama - It offers the expertise to mingle with people and to establish connections.

4. Vivasvan - It offers energy to attain peak of success and fame.

5. Mitra - It offers energy in the form of motivation to take fruitful action.

(From 6 to 13)

From these 4 energies, along with that of Brahma, emerge 8 more energy fields in a diagonal direction (i.e. NE, NW, SE, SW). These are called the asthsiddhiyan and are named as follows-

6. Rudra - It offers energy to carry out tasks, without interruption. It also represents emotional imbalance.

7. Rajyaksma/Rudrajaya - It offers supportive and supervising energy to carry out the ideas offered by the mind.

These above 2 energy fields are in the North-West zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

8. Apa - It offers energy to attain the right way to accomplish a task, find the solution to any problem, and promote healing.

9. Apavatsa - It offers to help energy for Apa and also acts as a reservoir of nutrition.

These above 2 energy fields are in the northeast zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

10. Savita - Only planning is not adequate in life. This field offers motivational energy to begin any action.

11. Sosa/savitra - It offer supportive energy for savita, and towards managing funds.

These above 2 energy fields are in the South-East zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

12. Indra - It offers energy to expand on property and especially, business. Highly beneficial for business properties.

13. Jaya/Indrajaya - It offers helping energy to carry out the tasks of Indra, in the form of tools, skills and mediums.

These above 2 energy fields are in the South-West zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

With this, we have listed out all the 13 inner deities of any Vaastu.

The outer 32 deities of Vaastu purusha mandala are as follow:

We will begin with listing the 16 deities in the 4 cardinal directions, at first.

(From 14 to 29)

14. Mikhya - It is the house of Vishwakarma and offers energy for carrying out the intended tasks.

15. Bhallata - It represents the abundance and fulfillment of any work. It helps to bag significant wealth for its occupants.

16. Soma - It lies in the house of Lord Kuber and represents the elixir of life. It offers an ample amount of wealth and is highly beneficial for business owners.

17. Bhujanga - It represents medicine and treatment. It offers healing and also immunity to keep illnesses at bay.

These above 4 energy fields are in the North zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

18. Jayanta - It offers determination to carry out the tasks in practical life. It contributes towards shaping the future.

19. Indra/Mahendra - It offers complete control of all the senses and concentrates them for fruitful work.

20. Ravi/surya - It represents the Sun and offers energy to carry out activity. It gives foresight to complete analyze any situationor task.

21. Satya - It represents righteousness. It generates create good thoughts, and morals.

These above 4 energy fields are in the East zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

22. Vitatha - It represents false illusion and pretension. This energy field can influence how a person behaves and react. It should be avoided without Vaastu’s supervision.

23. Grahksta - It represents stability and undivided attention. It gives the power to offer the best decision or guidance.

24. Yama - It represents the lord of death and law. It offers principles to lead the perfect life.

25. Gandharva - It is associated with lord Narad. It offers energy to bring out the creativity, art, connectivity, wisdom, etc from a person.

These above 4 energy fields are in the South zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

26. Sugriva - It represent Swan and its power. It offers power to get the best of everything, obtain knowledge and urge to do well in life.

27. Pushpadanta - It offers assistance to carry out any task. Any flaw in this field can cause hindrance to completing any work.

28. Varuna - It represents the ocean god. It offers to bond to earthly affairs and helps to have control over oneself.

29. Asura - It represents delusion, chaos, and unsystematic thoughts. If it is left weak, it can lead to confusion. If it is done right, it can help get rid of false temptations.

The above 4 energy fields are in the West zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

At last, its time to list the remaining 16 deities. They lie in the diagonal directional orientation.

(From 30 to 45)

30. Sosa - It represents the removal and elimination of all the negative aspects of your life.

31. Papayaksma - It brings out some negative aspects of life, such as diseases, alcoholism, and a weak mindset. It is best left unutilized without Vaastu correction.

32. Roga - It can drain the energy of good aspects of Vaastu if left weakened. If correct, it can offer support and destroy illnesses.

33. Naga - It represents Vasuki, the mighty snake worn by Lord Shiva. If left weakened, it causes jealousy, desire, and temptations.

These above 4 energy fields are in the North-West zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

34. Aditi - This is the house of Aditi, the mother of all devas. It offers safety and confidence.

35. Diti - this is the house of Diti, the mother of all asuras. It offers foresight and wealth, and clarity of mind.

36. Shikhi - it is an attribute to Lord Shiva, represents fire and offers the potential to make an ideal come alive.

37. Parjanya - it is associated with blessings of rain and thus offers fertility and offers a good result for any work done.

These above 4 energy fields are in the North-East zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

38. Bhrisa - It offers the triggering energy or force or power that initiates action.

39. Akasha - It represents sky or space element and it creates opportunities to make your work or activity successful.

40. Anila - It represents the Vayu god and also the fire element in the Vaastu. It offers support and energy to uplifts the result of any task.

41. Pusa - It represents nourishment and offers strength and energy to carry out any work.

These above 4 energy fields are in the South-East zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

42. Bhringraja - It represents a demon of the same name. It extracts all the benefits of any situation for you and eliminates the rest of it.

43. Mriga - It evokes the thirst of curiosity and finding the best aspect of it. It represents both focus and lack of focus for long.

44. Pitra - It represents the ancestral zone. It offers its blessings to the occupants.

45. Dauvrika - It represents the sacred Nandi, the doorkeeper of Lord Shiva. It offers protection and act as a guardian force against negative forces.

These above 4 energy fields are in the south-West zone of the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

It is important to take note that, even though we refer to them all as deities; they comprises of both devas and asuras. It means that it includes both positive and negative aspect in a given space. Thus, it is crucial to know which aspects to adapt and which to avoid, and how to strengthen them, in the Vaastu Purusha Mandala.

Seeking Vaastu for home and other properties has become more popular than ever before. With increasing awareness among people related to the Vaastu shastra; people are realizing the importance of the same. Its trace can be seen throughout the history of Indian civilization.

In fact, in the most ancient civilization, it was sort of customary to implement the guidelines of Vaastu shastra for any building itself. The imprint of the same can still be seen in ruins of Indian architecture and ancient temples that still stands today.

VAASTU COLOURS

Colours are most powerful in influencing the human mind and body. Vaastu Shastra provides vital guidelines as to how to decorate our homes etc. in a decent manner to derive maximum delight with dignity and décor.

According to Planets:

As per astrology, there are different Graha (Planets) and every planet leads with one colour. These are the colour of the different cardinal directions of a Vaastu which are based on planets governing these directions.

Directions

North

Northeast

Ruling Planets

Colours

Mercury Green

Jupiter Yellow

East Sun Orange

Southeast

South

Southwest

West

Northwest

Colour of Sun Planet:

Venus Silver

Mars Coral red

Rahu Navy blue

Saturn Black

Moon White

The colour of the Sun is red and East is the direction governed by this planet. So the strengthening of the Sun in the horoscope of an individual should be done with red flowers or saffron-colour items. This colour represents energy and power. It also shows vitality and creativity. However, an excess of red is harmful. This colour is not recommended to be used for people who have heart trouble.

Colour of Moon Planet:

Moon governs the North-west direction and its colour is pale white. This colour contains all the seven colours of the spectrum and has to purify properties. It influences the thought process and leads toward virtue and spirituality. However, an excess of white is also not good.

Colour of Mars Planet:

The South direction is governed by the planet Mars. The red colour Mars emits slightly yellowish rays. The difference between Sun’s red and Mars’s red is that the red on Sun indicates royalty while the red on Mars indicates violence. The redness of Mars is associated with the RBC (red blood cells). A deficiency of Mars red can cause blood-related problems while excess red can be a cause of accidents and excessive aggression.

Colour of Mercury Planet:

The North direction is governed by Mercury. This planet is green in colour and this colour stands for balance, harmony, and hope. It has the capacity to calm down agitated nerves and the mind. Therefore, this colour is good for people suffering from heart problems. This is also good for pregnant women. Excess greens can cause lethargy.

Colour of Jupiter Planet:

The Northeast direction is governed by the planet Jupiter. The colour of Jupiter is yellow or yellowish orange. The effects of both these colours are generally positive. This is, therefore, a benefic planet. Its colour has a warming effect and energizes the nervous system. The yellowness produces a stimulating effect on the intellect.

Colour of Venus Planet:

The planet Venus rules over the South-east direction. The colour of this planet is shivering white which is a combination of all colours of the spectrum. Moon is pale white but Venus is shivering white. The effects of the white colour are the same as in Moon but Moon represents simplicity while Venus represents sophistication.

Colour of Saturn Planet:

The colour of Saturn is black and it governs the West direction. This colour is caused by the absence of light. The rays emitted by Saturn are of violet colour, Black is a calming colour for agitated persons and is also known for its protective properties. There are negative qualities also like resistance, obstruction, opposition, and enmity. The excess of black is a cause of depression.

Colour of Rahu/Ketu Planet:

Rahu/Ketu governs the South-west direction. The shadow planet Rahu is regarded as smoky or black in colour whereas the shadow planet Ketu is generally considered brown in colour. The brown colour is not the original colour of the spectrum.

According to Zodiac signs:

In recent times of Astro-Vaastu, the colour schemes are being suggested as per the rashi (constellation/zodiac sign) of the owner to bring good luck and happiness. These colours are suggested by properly analyzing the horoscope of an individual. They are based on their favourable zodiac and favourable planets which are synced with the planetary directions.

Zodiac Colours

Aries Coral Red

Taurus Milky White

Gemini Green

Cancer

Rose Red, Pearl White

Leo Ruby Red, Dim White

Virgo Emerald Green

Libra

Cement Colour, Milky White

Scorpio Pink, Coral Red

Sagittarius Golden Yellow

Capricorn Dim Red

Aquarius Pink, Blue

Pisces Yellow, Pure White

‘VIBGYOR’ Colours in Vaastu:

This represents Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red. The visible light which is a mixture of seven colours gets manifested in violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red (VIBGYOR). These colours originate from the Sun and travel in different wave lengths with varying energy intensities.

Visible light is the source of all life in the biosphere and it is responsible for all the biogeochemical cycles in the environment of the earth which sustains all the plant and animal life including the life of human beings. The main driver of energy is the Sun from where the colour waves originate.

The significance of colours has been documented by scientific research in recent times. Its significance was, however, known to the people before the development of modern science.

These colours have the most powerful effect in influencing the human mind and body. Colours can change the visual size and shape of a room as well as create an atmosphere and add warmth, vitality, and beauty to a room and change the mindset of residents or visitors. It also attracts the bad or good vibrations of such a particular room

Colour plays a vital role in adding beauty to our dream home or apartment flat, it influences the mood, health, and happiness of residents living in those properties. The flow of energy is important and this combination of colours prescribes desirable ways or characteristics for houses and flats in the apartments.

The science of Vaastu describes the directions that combine five elements (Earth, Air, Water, Fire, and Sky) of nature and balance with man and material.

Vaastu shastra always states that humans must co-habitant with nature in harmony, to derive extreme benefit from nature’s forces, at the same time eliminates the negative elements that are omnipresent.

The following colours are considered as auspicious or recommended for the good understanding purpose of one's own property.

1. White for Peace and Intensity :

Most of the residents don't like the White colour of their Indian bedroom design, and most of them think it might get dirty easily.

Some suggest that brighter shades of this colour make appropriate colours for bedroom accents. One may brush them for the ceilings of bedrooms which reflect light and it helps brighten the bedroom or living room.

2. Orange for look and Power :

The colour orange represents warmth, reassurance, and comfort, and symbolizes spirituality, and power. The brighter shades of this colour are a good choice for bedroom accents, rather than wall colours. As orange is an amazingly versatile colour and invokes positive feelings and happiness, this is always a suitable shade for bedroom use, one may never be used in its true arrogance saffron hue, but peach or the pastel version hue is perfect or quite popular for its nice cool effect on the ambiance of a study or bedroom.

3. Red for Dare and Brave :

Generally many say that Red colour is the most emotional and dramatic out of all other colours, it says confident attitude and bold movement, this colour may be useful for the most exciting areas to speak with great voice and vivaciousness, and it may be used in restaurants which attached Bar, etc. This colour speaks great energy and also stress.

As this colour is a symbol of power, dare, and brave, so avoid the usage of red colour in bedrooms, where it may harm to the weak heart people. Instead of using this direct red colour you may use the warm, shaded, muted, and brownish colour for pillows or

bedspreads, not for the room or walls or curtains. In Astrological saying, Red is the symbol of Kuja or Mangal or Mars name for the power of strategy and fighting force. Some may use these red colour shades like dark red, brownish red, etc in their bath areas or bathrooms. Sometimes this pure red colour creates fear, hues may bounce fear from confidence.

4. Yellow for Patience and Wisdom:

This is a very powerful colour with its effect, yellow, especially in gold tones, works very well, is extremely intense in its purest form, it evokes a sense of energy. and its symbolizes sunlight and patience and a sense of energy and vitality. This colour may be good for kids’ bedrooms or their study rooms. It stimulates the brain and is recommended for all rooms where brainpower is used such as laboratories, research labs, study rooms, offices, factory analyzing chambers, prayer rooms, and puja mandir, by knowing its energy and excitement somebody uses this color in their Dhyan mandir or puja places, etc. This colour may not be recommended for rooms where sunlight enters directly into those rooms.

5. Purple for Trust and Faith:

Bold purple or Fuschia well works for fabric accents in a living room or bedroom. This colour represents respect, faith, or trust. Many residents use this colour for their curtains, pillows, and bedspreads, etc. This colour may not be used for walls as it has a tendency to overpower the entire room.

6. Pink for Enjoyment and Joy:

Pink or its light colour may be a suitable colour for bedroom walls. This colour symbolizes joy and happiness, most of the Pink colour shade is suitable for master bedrooms. Some elders who practice Vaastu and Astrology say that pink is the right colour for Southwest or South bedrooms.

7. Green for Good Hope:

Those who do not have children may use this Green colour as it represents fertility and healing and is appropriate for bedrooms as the base colour

Green, hues generally symbolize nature, this colour brightens our eyes when eyes see the green colour, gets us to relax, it rejuvenates the body and particularly the mind. For kids bedroom walls green tinted or light green with dark shaded green for borders to bless the room with a healthy atmosphere.

Generally, nature paints or natural scenes represent different green hues. This colour may not commonly be used in homes, somebody uses this colour in their puja room or their meditation chambers, it may be used as a suitable colour in healing centers and yoga, and Dhyan centers.

Most of the yoga centers are preferred with white complexions and most of the hospitals are preferred only white though this green represents healing and hope. This colour brings harmony, as

discussed earlier in Yellow colour lines, this green colour also rejuvenates with good ideas and concentration.

8. Blue for Development and Growth:

The complexions of this blue colour are suitable in bedrooms or in living rooms. This colour represents calmness and tranquility and symbolizes relaxation. It is also called a cool colour, this colour complexion may be commonly used for relaxation centers.

This colour is the right choice for bedrooms, the hue is better than the direct blue colour. This stands for new growth. Shades of blue work very well as wall colours and brings a relaxing environment to the bedroom. For fabric accents, turquoise works well through the bedroom interior.

VAASTU DIRECTION, DEITIES, EFFECTS AND SPACES

Directions Deity Effect Spaces

North Kuber

Wealth & prosperity

Living room, seating, office, entrance

North-East Ishwar Religion & trinity Puja room, well, underground water tank

East Indra

South-East Agni

Progress & growth Entrance, guestroom, verandah, bathroom

Energy, vigour & strength Kitchen, generator, power supply

South Yama Death

South-West

Nairitya (Demon)

Purity & cleanliness

Back yard, kitchen garden

W/c, toilet, septic tank, washing area

West Varun Water Overhead tank, study room

North-West Vayu Air/Wind Bed room

Above Brahma Spiritual knowledge Courtyard (O.T.S.)

Below Ananta

Resources & worldly pleasures Basement

The following are the deities of different directions of Vaastu:

• Indra, the god of gods, is positioned in the East. The East is where it all begins in Vaastu Shastra. When people build their homes, the main door or the entrance is always facing the East. The eastern direction is the harbinger of good luck, which comes into the house through the door.

• Kubera, the god of wealth, resides in the north. In this location, some symbolic valuables should be placed to attract wealth.

• The Northeast is the position for Dharma, the god of righteousness. In Vaastu Shastra, this is a place for worship, meditation, and introspection.

• Agni, the god of fire, lives in the southeast corner. This should be the place of the kitchen.

• Yama, the god of death, resides in the South. He prevents the evil eye from taking control of our lives. In India, people put a ghoulish pumpkin mask, similar to Halloween masks, in Yama’s position to ward off the evil eye.

• Niruthi, who prevents homes from being robbed, dwells in the southwest corner.

VAASTU PLOTS: POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE SITES

A good selected site makes the house construction an easy task and the whole work will be completed in time. If we select a site based on Vaastu, the major portion of the work is completed.

A good Vaastu site brings the labour, the supervisor or Engineer, and the expected finance, at the appropriate time and assurance of early completion. This also fetches good fortunes to the occupants of the house/building, definitely.

One could see (in their area), many sites with half constructions. Further, in some cases, work is delayed for months together or years together.

The reasons may be different, out of them the owner has sufficient money, and the construction works will not move as per the expectation.

Wastage of money also becomes inevitable in the construction of houses due to faulty or bad sites.

Generally, residents have a big doubt that which direction site is good as per Vaastu, as per astrology someone is interested to haveEast andNorth facing properties, and some residents may be interested in South and West properties.

Even many astrologers are saying after checking the Astro chart and decide to buy only East or North facing homes/sites.

In my opinion, all directions are good (except for some conditions on Southwest, Southeast, and Northwest). If the site is not good according to

Vaastu principles then one should not buy it even if his/her horoscope says that the direction of the site is good.

Hence, the selection of a site is more crucial but it will be an easy task if the resident follows simple Vaastu rules. Now we are discussing some sites:

Classification of sites:

• Square site:

If the four sides are equal like a square, it is called a square site. These sites are called as chadustakona sites. This is best suited for any construction. These sites have maximum magnetic and cosmic energy. These sites bring happiness, riches, and health to the occupants.

This site is in a square shape if the resident wishes to buy this site, the strong advice is immediately to consult one experienced Vaastu consultant to have a good plan suitable to this plot for future improvement. In case some residents thought that they know all Vaastu techniques and taking chances in life then they move for the registration of such sites.

Generally, this kind of site bestows luck to the inhabitants, doors should be placed in the right place according to Vaastu. If doors are not correctly placed in the right place then the site may not provides happiness and prosperity to the residents.

Generally, square sites or sites are good in providing results, but should not forget the main and most important point is that it will provide good results only if it is 90° otherwise the results may vary.

Ancient literature also states that the heavenly Vaastu Purusha which is a spirit in the form of a human body may be best suited or fits in this square site and all of his body parts are perfect fits and that site leads to all-around success and prosperity and leads good health of residents.

This is 90 degrees site, there is only South and West walls shown for readers’ understanding purpose. The corner that is Southwest is 90 degrees. We may observe such 90° sites in many parts of our living areas. Generally, 90° sites are providing good results, if there is any mistake in terms of placing the Main Door, this 90° may not be cruelly punishing the residents. If the site is 120° then problems may arise

• Rectangular site:

These sites arecalled ‘Ayudha’sites. This bringsmorefortunes andriches to the occupants. But, the length should be in the proper ratio of 2:1 to width.

Some literature says that if the length is more than twice the width, then sites are not auspicious, as there will be an imbalance of Cosmic Energy in the site, but in our experience, we see lots of properties that enrich with more money, luck, name, etc when it crosses the 2:1 ratio.

One may also observe the system where the property has good Vaastu and crossed 2:1 ratio is bringing the light to the residents or not.

This is a rectangular-shaped house/site. Length is more than the width. Door placement is most important to this house/site. If the main entrance is not properly placed at a correct place according to Vaastu, then the residents may face troubles, they may always be looking for others' help.

If this site is not perfectly at 90° then one must consult an experienced Vaastu consultant before buying the site.

Many residents now select the sites by knowing half-knowledge of Vaastu and finally getting into trouble, knowing the information is different and practical knowledge is purely different.

Rectangular shape sites are good sites, no worries at all. But the entrance should be according to Vaastu principles, we must check the neighborhood before buying the sites. It is an important aspect of Vaastu

The South direction of this site has to be occupied by others, if not plant trees there to minimize the negativity from the South direction. Residents are investing their hard-earned money in properties so it is always best to have one best experts Vaastu consultants advise before taking decisions.

There are some other sites that may be called "oblong" ones, here the measurements are too varied or the length is heavier than the width and somewhat the corners may not be the unequal adjacent sides.

The cities that followed the linear architecture and rectangular lots, straight roads, picket fences, and rectangular buildings are the most successful in all countries in this entire world.

As per Vaastu, rectangular sites are not bad and bring more luck. The very most important point is that we must check thoroughly about 90° of the site, if it's not 90° then we must check it thoroughly before suggesting it to anyone.

In rectangular sites there are two types, one is East-West rectangular and North-South rectangular sites. The ideal proportion of the site of length and breadth is 1:2. In some rectangular sites, there is a variation in proportion, or very narrow rectangular sites are not said to be the good ones. Just like they may be like a train bogie or stretched corridors.

There are male rectangular sites and female rectangular sites are there. If the East-West length is more than North-South this could be called Male sites / male rectangular sites.

So, when you would like to select the rectangular shape property, then take care to see that the length has a North-South spread and the breadth has an East-West spread.

In other words, the East and West directions should be longer than the North and South Directions. Male sites or rectangular sites mean the EastWest measurement is more than the measurement of North-South directions.

• Circular Site:

Round shared or Circular sites are not auspicious for residential purposes. One should not construct the house in this round shared site. Please note that in some areas the constructions are not giving bad results though the circular shape is there, it is because there may not be constructed compound walls. If the compound wall is constructed on this site, then good or bad results start. When there is a compound wall, then this site is not at all suitable for residential means.

Circular-shaped plot with boundary wall:

Circular or round-shaped constructions may be good for commercial properties or constructions, provided if the construction is also roundshaped, then it may be auspicious. Round-shaped sites or roundshaped are not auspicious as there is a loss of the Northeast corner. A circular plot generally restricts prosperity, but the Kumbha vrittakar (pitcher-shaped) plot signifies prosperity. Living examples of such plots are Ring road, Connaught Place, Gole Market, and Kamala Nagar in Delhi.

According to modern scholars, circular construction inside a circular plot does not give good results, while circular construction inside a square plot gives good results. Examples - Sansad Bhawan, Stadiums, and buildings related to Buddha and other religions.

• Oval shapes sites:

The oval-shaped properties may be good for religious structures. But the house construction in this oval-shaped compound premises is not at all good. Such a plot is extremely troublesome. Residents of such a plot face a lot of misery, ill health losses, and varied problems. These problems can

be reduced by carving out the biggest rectangle and rejecting the rest of the plot.

• Triangular sites:

Triangular plots are irregular plots that have three corners. Construction in this site may lead to many tensions, fire accidents, disputes, defame to the residents, particularly losses and progeny lost, loss of successors, disciples, etc. Generally, this property attracts negative energies on the site or residents. For these reasons, construction on such a plot should be carried out only after carving out a square or rectangle.

Conical or angle shape plot:

Conical plots are like cones and are not augur well for the residents if houses are built on such plots. This is not auspicious. There is a lot of discord between the husband and wife living in such a house. There are lack of harmony between the members of the family. All the members have different opinions on any issue and they have strife and scuffle over trivial matters. This angle-shaped plot is also known or called an angularshaped site. This property has and may provide mixed results based on the location of the road to the residents. Measurements are also considered when evaluating the results of this site.

• Cart-Shaped Sites:

This is called the cart-shaped site or chariot-shaped plot. It is not giving good results to the residents. This type of plot doesn’t have proper length and width. Such plots are not considered good for the construction of any building. This is extremely inauspicious for the owner. House should not

be built on such a plot. If any house is built on such plots the inhabitants are bound to suffer from health problems, accidents, and financial worries.

• Double Cart Site:

This is a double cart-shaped site or a reversed site. This is also very inauspicious. Its owner is always surrounded by problems and has thefts in the house. As a result, his progress hinders and he is not able to prosper. So, it is better to avoid the construction of a house on this plot. The results of two joined chariot-shaped plots are also the same as that of the chariot-shaped plots but the intensity of problems is more in such plots. There are frequent problems for the inhabitants.

“T” Shaped Property:

This is a "T" shaped site. This is not an auspicious site. Residents may not expect good results from this property or House. T-shaped plots don't augur well for the owner because it proves quite harmful and inauspicious for him. The resident of this plot normally sells it within four or five years. However, its fifth owner may keep it longer and have some more stability.

• Semi-Circle Shaped Site:

This is a semi-circle or half-circle land/site. Semi-circular plots look like half of the circle. This type of plot is not considered good in Vaastu for any structure. It is inauspicious and causes poverty and unhappiness. Construction should be carried out only after carving out a Semi-circular Plot rectangle.

• Mridanga shaped site:

This is a mridanga-shaped site. It is rarely available in society. One should not buy this site without the proper guidance of the Vaastu specialist. Drum-shaped plots are irregular plots where all the sides are improper and non of the angle measures 90°. Such plots are inauspicious from the perspective of Vaastu. The person residing here is weak and his wife has a sudden death. The inhabitants of the buildings built on such plots are never happy and they have to face problems in and outside the house on daily basis. The owner of this plot is of loose character. He has many affairs and spends a lot of money on this habit. So a residential dwelling place should not be constructed on this plot.

• Parallelogram sites:

It has two pairs of parallel sides and a simple quadrilateral parallelogram, as per Euclidean Geometry. It has equal length and has opposite perspective facings. We may find these types of structures or sites in some areas. Based on the direction, the results may vary. Sometimes its very difficult, even for the experts to understand the exact structure which is to be defined as Parallelogram properties. Anyway, the residents should be very careful before starting the construction. Inhabitants have to invite

only experts in this field and obtain the right evaluation for a happy and peaceful future. Many experts come across these king structures and warn landlords to have the spectrum thought.

• Bow shape site:

This site may not develop a good relations with others. Residents of such a plot have many enemies. Along with this, they have to face varied problems and fear. To escape these results, a rectangle should be carved Bow Shaped Plot out of this plot and then construction should be carried out.

• Hand fan-shaped or flag-shaped site:

Hand fan-shaped plots are irregular plots and they have many edges and corners. Such plots are extremely inauspicious. It causes loss of money and cattle. It can even bring the owner down to being a beggar, so the residential house should not be constructed here.

• Damarukh or pathra beeda shape:

These sites are called as Damarukh or Pathra beeda sites. Broad sides are equal and lengthy sides are curved as shown in the image.

• Star-shaped sites:

This is star shaped property. These are very rare properties. Star-shaped properties are very inauspicious from the point of view of Vaastu and are rarely found. The person residing in such a plot is always surrounded by legal problems and court cases. As a result, his financial condition remains weak. So it is better not to make a residential house here.

• Capsule or vardhaka shaped site:

This is called a Vardhaka or Virudham or Capsule shaped property.These types of plots are also not considered good for residential buildings and commercial structures like shops, factories, offices, etc. It gives mixed results. The person who resides here cannot accumulate money.

• Kakmukhi (Crow-shaped) sites:

This is said to be a Kakmukhi Shaped site. This may be also called as Crow shaped site. Somebody has their opinion that this property is good and residents will be more prosperous. But the shape of the tile and its direction is too important to decide the results.

• Pie-shaped sites:

This is pie shaped site. Generally, in India, we may not see these kinds of sites, but in western countries, these types of sites may be available near the cul-de-sak areas. Most of the time these types of sites may not be good. In some conditions, based on directions and measurements some times these may fetch. Most probably these sites are not auspicious.

• Trapezoid shaped sites:

This is a Trapezoid shaped plot. None of the lengths of the sides are the same. We have seen these kinds of sites, but in western countries, these types of sites may be common. Most of the time these types of sites may not be good. In some conditions, these may give good results based on directions and measurements.

• Bucket-shaped sites:

Bucket-shaped plots are irregular plots where the dimensions are not found to be proper. Such types of plots are highly inauspicious for residential buildings and commercial premises. The residents of such plots are always found to be in debt and have other types of problems.

• Gomukhi or cow-faced sites:

General sayings said that these sites are good for residential houses. But it is not good for commercial complexes or constructions. It is said to be the front portion is narrow and the rear shape is broad. Here the road is toward the North. Then it is said to be the Gomukhi site. If the road came towards the South then it is said to be Shermukhi. Some say that these is Visambag / VishamBhag sites and are not suitable for any construction.

• Shermukhi or Singhmukhar or Vyagramukhi:

This shape of land is called Shermukhi or Singh Mukhi or Shermukhakar or vyagramukhi sites or Lion shaped site or Singh mukhakar sites. Sites that are broad in front and narrow in rear or back side are called Shermukhi. It is said that these sites are good for commercial purposes

and not suitable for residential houses. This is just opposite to the Gowmukhi site, as compare with the above image. Some say that this is also called a Tabla site, it seems to be the shape is like that style.

There is a prolonged public disagreement or controversy with the linkage of the Trapezium shape with Gomukhi, somebody says it’s only for Shermukhi, and major opinions that this trapezium shape belongs to the cow shape or Gomukhi.

• Sun and Moon Sites:

In some places the sites may be of two types, one part is very light and another part is heavier. The site is diagonally divided equally into two parts, one part is said to be Northeast and another part is said to be Southwest part. The Northeast part is the Sun portion and the Southwest part is the Moon portion. The Sun portion is lower and shines and the Moon part portion is dark and heavier. Generally, these properties are not seen. But just like these sites, we can find the sites which have elevated towards the Southwest and depression towards the Northeast sides. This site is not familiar in society, many people do not know about this Sun and Moon site.

SELECTION OF A BUILDING SITE

The Vaastu Shastras address the energy contained in the Earth as "Vaastu Purusha" where "Purusha" means the subtle energy that permeates the Earth and "Vaastu" is the material body of the Earth that evolved out of that energy. In abstraction "Purusha" is but a subtle substance "Vaastu" or essence of the subtle universe which, in other words, means "universal consciousness". Earth is a conscious living being suspended in space and exists as an extension of the universal being. Earth is evoked and pujas are offered to it before excavation for construction. This is called "Vaastu Shanti" or the "appeasement" of Earth.

A prayer is made to the Earth before starting the earthwork: "O Mother Earth! May youfill the plot with your energy andmake it fertile. May you bless us with wealth and prosperity. I bow to thee!" All animate objects including human beings are tied to the Earth, with no scope for escape, and therefore, they should try to live in harmony with its subtle and physical qualities. This is an emotional integration that the Vaastu science establishes between man and Earth and finally between man and the built space. The built space is created by man in accordance with a formula by which the Universal Being has created the material objects of nature.

Site:

A site where water is found at the depth of a "man's height with upraised arms" is known as "Purushanjali matra" and is said to be good for human habitation. Water flow underneath the land should be in a clockwise direction, along with the motion of the Earth. A way to test for this is to dig a pit three feet deep, fill it with water, throw flowers on the surface and watch whether they move in a clockwise direction.

While defining the physical characteristics of good soil and site one of the Vaastu texts says:

"The soil of the habitable ground should be soft and close-grained (hard and well consolidated) and be overgrown with fragrant flowers, creepers, and shrubs. Further, it should be of good odour, spacious in extent, and of even level. Also with sub-soil water flowing in the clockwise direction. "

The evenness of grains and compactness of the soil are tested by digging a pit of 3 hastas (8'-3" x 8'-3" x 8'-3") and refilling the pit with the excavated soil. The soil is good if a part of the earth remains after refill, bad if there is insufficient soil to refill the pit, and fair if no earth is left over after refilling.

The fertility of the soil is verified through a test because it is a reflection of the fertility and prosperity available to human life inhabiting the land. This is ascertained by sowing seeds on the site and observing the duration of germination, ranging from three to seven days.

There is a very sensitive test for ascertaining the quality of the ambiance prevailing in the particular area to be taken over for residential purposes. For this test, a certain number of cows and calves along with bulls are left free on the site, overgrown with seedlings and saplings, to graze.

The purpose is to ascertain the sensitivity of the soil conducive to the procreational tendencies of human beings. If the bulls raise affectionate and alluring sounds and run towards the cows to mate with them, this is good. This is considered to be a very good sign. It foretells an affectionate and intimate relationship between the master and mistress of the house to be built on that site. The spiritual ambiance that prevails in the area accounts for such behavioural overtones.

Vaastu designers adopt a practical way of identifying the quality of the building site from the very sight of the vegetation that grows there. If the leaves are thick, green and of dense growth, the soil is considered to be the best one for human habitation. Such a feature ensures the presence of water underneath and on that account the fertility of the soil is recognized.

Living near big factories that pollute the air is objected to by the Shastras. Even the factories of the shilpis were kept away from the towns or cities in the olden days. Also, temple complexes are recommended to be located in far-flung areas such as mountaintops, forests, riverbanks, or seashores.

Marshy lands, slushy sites, and clayey soils are disallowed by the Shastras. No improvement of defective soil or site is recommended in the shastras.

Lands containing skulls of animals and human beings, broken stones, tiles, scraps of iron, nails spikes, hair, husks, charred wood or charcoal, white ants (termites?), serpents, rats, and frogs are stoutly objected to. They are considered to be cancerous. This aspect of keeping the earth free from impurities is covered very elaborately by Vaastu sciences under the title "Bhugarbha". The concept in this context is that the lifelong association with bad earth is harmful to physical and spiritual well-being.

The natural lie of the ground is also to be studied. This aspect is known as "declivity of the ground" or "plavanam". In general, the ground with its southern and western parts raised and inclined respectively towards north and east is recommended. This ensures the flow of underground water in a clockwise direction throughout the year. This trait is noticeable

in the temple buildings with the water chute directed either to the north or to the east. Wells should only be in the Northeast quarter or corner of the site. The energy starts moving from this point of the northeast of an enclosed space. It is common that every building, village, or town should be enclosed by a compound wall to be vibrant. The walls form the cup that contains the energy. Every plot of land that is demarcated into a habitable Vaastu moves clockwise with its axis situated at the center of the built space. This axis, though invisible to the physical eyes does exist, just as there also runs a thread of consciousness in the human body from the center of the skull, down below and between the legs, which is called Brahma Sutra. This thread of consciousness is also established very consciously in a house built according to Vaastu principles. This thread or plumb of consciousness introduced in a built space ensures not only stability but also mobility (growth) of the energy enclosed and it is expended to the dwellers to experience harmony and develop physically and spiritually.

Slope of land:

West elevated - sloping towards the east: promotes material growth and prosperity.

South elevated - sloping to north: brings in wealth

East elevated - sloping towards the west: loss of wealth

North elevated - sloping towards the south: loss of inhabitants

Northeast elevated - sloping towards southwest is bad.

Southeast elevated - sloping towards northwest is good.

Northwest elevated - sloping towards southeast is bad.

Southwest elevated - sloping towards the northeast is good.

Southeast and east elevated - west and northwest are low-lying is good for human beings

South and Southeast elevated - north and northwest low-lying bring name and fame in all activities.

Southwest and south elevated - north and northeast low-lying, the family of the indweller will multiply and be long-lived. Added to this such a plot is blessed with long life.

West and southwest elevated - northeast and east low-lying brings welfare and comfort to the occupant.

West and northwest high - east and southeast low, are said to create commotion and enmity.

North and northwest high - south and southeast low creates disease.

North and northeast high-low from south to southwest leads to annihilation.

East to northeast elevated - west to southwest low-lying causes decay of family.

There is a sloka in a text called Vaastu Vidya, which can be memorized by practitioners:

The plot with its

Southeast high -- brings in wealth

Southeast low -- loss of wealth

South high -- free from illness

Southwest high brings in wealth

West high blessed with progeny

Northwest high loss of property

North high -- generates disease

Northeast high -- excessive grief

East side high – the death of children

There is also an indication of high or low ground with respect to the profession. For individuals involved in physical labour--declivity in the west, commercial activities -- declivity in the South, political leaders, and rulers declivity in the East, intellectuals and professionals declivity in the North.

The sound of the ground, when tapped with an instrument (a spade or pickaxe) should be that of a horse, elephant, bamboo, veena (stringed instrument), sea, or dundubi (percussion instrument). The land should have the odor of lotus or padiri flowers or grains or cows.

Land possessing the colours white, red, yellow, black, or gray, tastes such as bitter, acrid, astringent, saline, sour, or sweet, such a site brings in wealth and prosperity. Land possessing the smell of curd, ghee, honey, oil, blood, corpse, fish, or birds is rejected due to negative effects on health. Places with heavy and giant trees should not be selected.

Water should be reached at a depth of 7'-6".The location of the building should not be close to public institutions or monasteries, temples, or palaces.

Sites, where thorny trees grow, should be avoided. Graveyards should be avoided.

Shapes of the building site to be avoided are circular, triangular, polygonal with irregular sides, serpentine, curved like the back of a tortoise, ground with rising in the center, shapes of bird, fish, drum, willow, conch, chameleon, lizard, monkey, pig, python, chisel, pickaxe or cat.

Location of a building at a place not easily accessible or at the junction of 2, 3, or 4 roads, or opposite to a road (perpendicular) should be avoided.

1. Barren Land with no sign of greenery.

2. Land on which the shadow of the temple, towers, temple walls, and temple flag post fall.

3. We must avoid buying land with too much-wet soil or water seeping from the ground.

4. We must avoid buying land near bridges and large buildings.

5. A plot which is narrower in the west or in the south, in comparison to the north and east portions, is not good.

6. Land with many cracks in the soil/ground is not good for living.

7. Presence of bones and coal in the land is not good.

8. Land which previously, at any time, belonged to any temple or charitable trust, etc.

9. A plot which is very much raised in comparison to it's surroundings.

Cleaning of Land:

The plot should be cleaned before any further work is done on the land. Any type of pits, stones, thorny bushes, etc must be removed while cleaning the land. If there is a gun arabic tree (babool) in the land, it should be uprooted first. Levelling of Land South-West of the plot should be gently raised in comparison to the northeast side of the plot. If the land contains any wells or other depressions, they should be filled up and leveled. Well in East, North, or North-East A well or temporary sump should be dug in the east, north, or northeast and only water from this sump/well should be used for construction, and water from any other source must not be used for construction.

Raw Material:

Raw materials to be used for construction like cement, bricks, etc. should be kept in the south, west, or southwest of the plot, and never in the northeast.

Construction:

The construction of the house must be started within 90 days from the day of completion of the boundary wall.

Bhumi Pujan:

It is extremely necessary to worship the land before starting construction. The prayer should be done in the north corner of the plot by a learned Pandit. The first digging must be done by the owner or the architect at an auspicious time as set by a learned astrologer. The auspicious months for starting work are:

* March - April

* April - May

* July - August

* October - November

* January – February

And the best days for starting the work are:

* Wednesday

* Thursday

* Friday

Excavation:

Excavation for the main house or any other portion including the boundary wall should only be started from the northeast direction of the house, and it should progress from north to west or east to south. When these excavations are to be filled i.e while laying the foundation while

starting the construction, they must be filled from south to east and from west to north.

Temporary Shed:

A temporary shed, if needed to be constructed, for a watchman or for storage purposes, should be constructed in the southwest of the plot. And the door of the shed should be in the northeast. The construction of this shed in accordance with Vaastu prevents thefts and helps in the smooth flow of the construction work. After the completion of the work/construction of the building, this shed must be demolished, and should not be used for further storage/living, etc.

HOME ACCORDING TO VAASTU SHASTRA

In India a home is not just a shelter for human beings, it is called a 'Manushyalaya' which means 'human temple'. As per Vaastu both the house and temple are sacred spaces so a house should be designed with the same concept as the temple.

A house design with an "open courtyard system" was a national pattern of India before the introduction of western concepts. The arrangement of the built spaces is the basis of creating a spiritual environment needed for well-being and prosperity. In an ideal layout of a perfectly square building with a superimposed modular Vaastu grid of 9 x 9 forming 81 squares the centre space 'Brahmasthan' is supposed to be the nuclear energy field which should be unbuilt and kept open to the sky to connect with the outer space 'Akasha'. The central courtyard is not for living purposes it can be used for cultural and religious rituals. The next row of squares adjacent to the centre space is to be used for a walkway and the corner squares are to be used for the specific rooms.

❖ Prayer Room:

The place for worship and meditation is recommended to be in the Northeast corner of the house. The image of deity or god should not face the south direction. We must ensure that we must face either East or West while praying or meditating in a peaceful environment.

Vaastu for puja room

❖ Kitchen:

The kitchen must be situated at a fire angle, i.e. in the South-East. The face of the cook should be towards the East. The water tap in the kitchen should be in the North-East direction. It is better if the stone on which food is cooked is of red color.

Vaastu for kitchen

❖ Drawing Room:

It should always be constructed towards the north. The rooms located in the northern part of the house should be bigger in size as compared to the rooms in the southern part of the house. They should be shorter to them in height by one to three inches. This is an important rule of Vaastu Shastra. Furniture should be square or rectangular in shape. The furniture should be kept in South and West directions. Open space should be maximum in North and East directions.

❖ Dining Room:

The dining room and kitchen should be on the same floor and should be adjacent to the kitchen from the left. The entrance to the dining room and the main door should not be facing each other. The dining table should be square or rectangular in shape and should not be attached or folded against the wall.

Vaastu for drawing rooms

Vaastu for dining rooms

❖ Bed Room:

According to Vaastu, the master bedrooms should be in the SouthWest corner of the house. If the house has more than one floor then, then it should be on the topmost floor. The ceiling should be level, this makes the energy of the room uniform, which in turn gives one a steady state of mind. Children’s rooms should be on the northwest or west side. To have better concentration they should have a separate study close to their bedrooms.

Vaastu for bedroom

❖ Study Room:

The North-East, North-West, North, West, and East corners are best for a study room. If the study room and place of worship room are adjacent then it is considered most beneficial. These directions attract the positive effects of Mercury increasing brain power, Jupiter increasing wisdom, Sun increasing ambition, and Venus helping in bringing about creativity in new thoughts and ideas.

Vaastu for study room

❖

Bathroom and Toilet:

The bathroom and toilet should be constructed in the West and South directions and the flow of its drains should be towards North-East. One must not build toilets in the direction of the eastern corner and the face should be towards the South or West while discharging stools.

Bathrooms and toilets should be adjacent to the northeast corner. They should never be constructed in the center or in the southwest corner of the house.

Vaastu’s directions for the bathroom and toilet

❖ Store Room:

If essential then the store room should be constructed in the southern part of the building, otherwise grain and other provisions can be stored in the kitchen or in other rooms and cupboards. Things should not be stored in diwans and box beds because it affects the magnetic environment of the self and the room causing sleeping disorders.

❖ Height of Rooms:

According to Vaastu shastra, the rooms in the northern part of the house should be larger than the rooms in the southern side by 69 inches and lower by 1-3 inches. The height of rooms should ideally be, 12- 14 feet. Doors/Windows As far as doors are concerned, the main door should be larger than the inner doors and all doors should open towards the walls. All windows should be at least 3 feet 6 above ground level and should be at the same level from the top. Window openings should be on the northern and eastern sides of the buildings.

Vaastu for storeroom

❖ Doors/Windows:

The doors should be in the North and East. When someone enters, the waves emerging from the doors affect his / her mind because the magnetic waves always flow around us. The main door should be larger than the inner doors and all doors should open toward the walls. All windows should be at least 3 feet 6 above ground level and should be at the same level from the top. Window openings should be on the northern and eastern sides of the buildings.

❖ Staircase:

Southern or southwestern portions of the building are ideal for locating the staircase. We should not design a staircase of a building in the northeast portion. The steps should climb from east to west or from north to south. If there are landings or turnings in a staircase, it should wind up in a clockwise direction. The number of steps in a staircase should be an odd number so that if you start climbing the steps with the right foot, you will reach the higher floor on the right foot itself.

❖ The Interior :

"Homes" within the house: The interior signifies the space enclosed by the outer walls of the house. As named earlier these directions are northeast, east, south-east, south, south-west, west, north-west, and north. We do not have the liberty of setting up a kitchen, lavatory, bedroom, etc. just anywhere within the precincts to suit the convenience of the so-called modern architecture.

• The central slot, Brahmasthan, is supposed to be kept vacant and clean to afford free movement or circulation. This is health-giving also because it provides the much-needed ventilation for the surrounding areas of intensive activity.

• The northeast: aspected by Eshan, this place holds the monopoly to host all work related to worship and meditation. Additionally, it also admits reception, study, and office.

• The east is suited for reception, bath (excluding WC), verandah, drawing room, and unmarried son's bedroom.

• The southeast belongs to Agni (Fire). It holds the monopoly to host the kitchen which, in any other place, portends serious digestive disorders in the family and overstrain for the cook. Inside, at a safe spot, or on the outer wall, it is well advised to have utilities such as an electric meter, circuit breakers, inverter, generator, etc.

• The south is suited for bedrooms (other than the Master bed), and a staircase.

• The southwest is suited exclusively for the master bedroom.

• The west: This suits children's bedroom, study, and overhead water tank.

• The northwest belongs to Vayu (air). This is the best place for a daughter to be married and for guests. It is good also as a washing area.

• The north serves best as a bedroom for a married son. It also suits a living room.

Going through the eight areas equips us with an awareness of their attributes.

AN EVALUATION QUESTIONAIRE ON THE POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF VAASTU POSITIONING ON

ALL THE CARDINAL DIRECTIONS

No. Questions

1. Which is the most suitable direction for the main entrance?

2. Which is the best direction for installing a puja room?

3. Which direction do you feel is suitable for the living/dining room?

4. Which is the best direction for the kitchen?

5. Which direction is suitable for the master bedroom?

6. Which direction is best for the kid’s bedroom?

7. Which direction is best suitable for the guest bedroom?

8. Which direction is suitable for bathrooms/toilets?

9. Which direction is the best location for boring?

10. Which direction is best for an electric meter?

With the help of this questionnaire, a survey was conducted on 100 residents based upon which the analysis was being made. The survey was conducted on people having some knowledge and belief in Vaastu.

1. Which is the most suitable direction for the main entrance?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

Main Entrance Effects – EAST

There are a total of 8 possible entrances in the East direction from E1 to E8. Two of these 8 locations are auspicious for the construction of the main gate. The auspicious gates in the East are known as E3 (Jayant) and E4 (Indra).

E1 [Shikhi] –

This is the first Pada of the East direction which is also known as Shikhi. The main entrance in this pada causes fire, accidents and gives financial losses.

E2 [Parjanya] –

This pada is known as Parjanya. Entrance in Parjanya or E2 results in wasteful expenditure and more girls are born in such houses.

E3 [Jayanta] –

It is one of the auspicious entrances of the east direction. Such an entrance ensures wealth, prosperity, and success in life.

E4 [Indra] –

This is another positive entrance in the east zone. It increases social associations in a positive way. It attracts personal benefits from the important people in the government.

E5 [Surya] –

An entrance into this zone causes people to be extremely aggressive and short-tempered. Hence, the residents will often take wrong decisions.

E6 [Satya] –

This entrance makes people liar and unreliable because people living in such houses find it hard to keep their commitment. It also causes trouble to the daughter.

E7 [Bhrisha] –

This zone should be avoided for the construction of the main gate. It makes the occupants insensitive and cruel towards others’ problems. It will attract trouble from the enemies.

E8 [Akash] –

Vaastu prohibits the placement of the main gate in E8 or Akash zone. It results in financial losses, accidents, disease, and theft.

Main Entrance Effects – SOUTH

This is perhaps one of the biggest of all myths that a south-facing house is highly inauspicious. However, it is not the truth. In fact, various Vaastu case studies have shown that most successful businesses occupy South-facing properties.

But, there is no doubt that we need to be more careful while locating our main entrance in the south-facing house. There are 8 padas (entrance locations) from S1 to S8 in the South direction.

Two of these 8 padas are highly beneficial which are known as S3 (Vitatha) and S4 (Grihrakshita). Other padas are considered inauspicious according to the rules stated in Vaastu shastra.

S1 [Anil] –

This zone must be avoided for the entrance gate as it negatively affects the male child of the house. It will not only bring trouble to your son but there will also be a conflict between the parents and the child.

S2 [Poosha] –

Such an entrance attracts trouble from relatives but it is considered good for people working in MNC’s as it helps them get regular promotions and salary hikes. However, it is not the best option for the entrance gate in the south direction.

S3 [Vitatha] –

The main gate in Vitatha pada provides immense prosperity and success. Residents of such houses become skilled enough to get their work done. However, they do not hesitate to adopt unfair methods and tricks. So, this entrance does provide prosperity, but it also makes the residents unreliable.

S4 [Grihrakshita] –

According to Vaastu Shastra, Grihrakshita pada is the best entrance located in the south direction. It brings prosperity and fame. Therefore, it is considered good for actors and media professionals.

S5 [Yama] –

It is one of the ominous entrances of the south direction. It results in lots of debts and financial losses. It is advised to not make an entrance gate in this zone.

S6 [Gandharva] –

The S6 entrance is also known as Gandharva. Such a house causes humiliation and gives poverty. It gives financial losses and defames.

S7 [Bhringraj] –

This entrance results in a waste of effort in every aspect of an individual life. Hence, they become uninterested in hard work, and that ultimately causes in disappointment from life.

S8 [Mriga] –

This is the most inauspicious entrance according to Vaastu shastra. This entrance makes people rude and insensitive to others, which gradually disconnects them from society and they become lonely. It causes loss of wealth, power, and strength and brings sorrow to children. That is why the entrance gate in this zone must be avoided.

Main Entrance Effects – WEST

The West direction has 8 entrance locations from W1 to W8. Out of these 8 locations, only two are favourable for the occupants of the house. The favourable locations or padas are W3 (Sugriva) and W4 (Pushpdanta).

W1 [Pitra] –

This entrance is not recommended as per Vaastu as it gives poverty and reduces life span.

W2 [Dwarika] –

This door creates instability in careers and makes people insecure about family resulting in relationship problems.

W3 [Sugriva] –

This pada called Sugriva provides incredible wealth, growth, and prosperity. It is one of the best entrances in the west direction.

W4 [Pushpdanta]

An individual can locate his entrance in the auspicious W4 pada which is also known as Pushpdanta. It ensures an increase in wealth as well as the prosperity of the male child. Such houses provide us with a smooth and happy life.

W5 [Varuna] –

This door gives mixed results. It makes a person perfectionist at work, but at the same time, it also makes the person overambitious. Therefore, it can be advantageous financially, but it can also prove to be problematic at times.

W6 [Nakaratma] –

This pada in the west direction is known as Nakaratma. As the name suggests, it is a negative entrance to the house. It adversely affects the mind and makes the person prone to mental depression. It is also very harmful to government employees. Overall, this is an ominous entrance.

W7 [Shauka] –

People residing here become unhappy and stressed. Health and money issues are commonly found in such houses. And as a result, they start getting addicted to drugs and alcohol.

W8 [Papyakshama] –

This entrance compels the people to use unfair, unlawful means for their own benefit. It keeps the residents (especially men) out of the house and also provides opportunities for foreign tours.

Main Entrance Effects – NORTH

The number of auspicious padas (entrance locations) in the North direction is more than in any other direction. This is one of the reasons why North is considered very auspicious in Vaastu shastra.

Like all the other directions, north also has a total of 8 possible entrances. Three of these entrances are incredibly advantageous for the residents of the house. So, make sure to construct the main gate of your house in N3 (Mukhya), N4 (Bhallat) and N5 (Soma)

N1 [Roga] –

This first door of the north is known as N1 or Roga. People living in such houses are harmed by the bad intentions of other people. It creates unnecessary fears in the minds of the inhabitants. It keeps people (especially women) out of the house and also provides opportunities for foreign tours.

N2 [Naga] –

It increases the number of enemies and there is a constant fear of them. It creates the tendency to stalk people. Naga’s entrance also creates a feeling in the residents that others are jealous of them.

N3 [Mukhya] –

It is an incredibly auspicious and advantageous entrance that brings an abundance of wealth, prosperity, and amazing growth to its residents. The occupants of such a house are blessed with more male children.

N4 [Bhallat] –

This auspicious entrance is also known as Bhallat. This is a positive entrance and it ensures an abundance of inherited property, wealth, and prosperity. It opens new doors and opportunities for wealth.

N5 [Soma] –

People residing in such houses tend to be more religious and calm. Soma pada is considered a good choice for the construction of the main gate.

N6 [Bhujang] –

Due to the behaviour of the residents living here, people generally disapprove and avoid listening to them. This pada causes opposition and quarrels with the son.

N7 [Aditi] –

This pada called Aditi is particularly harmful to the women of the house. Girls living here tend to defy the traditional beliefs of the family. For instance, it results in live-in relationships and intercast marriages.

This is a positive entrance as it gives a higher bank balance and increases savings. However, N3, N4, and N5 are the most favourable entrances in the North direction.

2. Which is the best direction for installing a puja room?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

The direction, in which the puja room must be placed, is the most crucial aspect of Vaastu for the puja room. As per Vaastu shastra, each direction represents something special.

This includes 4 cardinal directions - north, south, east, west; and 4 diagonal directions - north-west, north-east, south-west, and south-east

1. North-east Zone- The northeast direction is considered the zone of lord Shiva, and is termed as the Ishanya zone. You can place any god in this zone puja room.

Thus, it is the most auspicious zone to place the puja room. This placement enhances the Vaastu for puja room, helps to channel the divine energy, and leads a fulfilling life.

2. East zone - After the northeast zone, the east can be considered a suitable zone for puja room placement.

This zone is highly beneficial for people who hold a serious position in their career and wish to get recognition in their work life.

3. South East zone - If your family deity is Goddess Durga, only then you are advised to place the puja room in the southeast zone.

Refrain from utilizing this space for worshiping any other deities as it can bring financial burdens or risks of accidents for the residents.

4. South zone - The south zone is best for meditation and worshipping Goddess Kali. It offers a fruitfull result to the worshiping.

However, make sure not to worship any other god or goddess in this zone, as it will not be very effective and fruitfull.

5. South-West zone - Since this is the exact opposite of the Northeast zone; it comes with few guidelines for worshiping. You can do Vishwakarma Puja in this zone.

The southwest is considered the Pitra zone, and thus, it is ideal for performing any rites for the ancestors of the family.

But avoid it otherwise, as it might cause hindrance in cash-inflow.

6. West zone - The west zone is considered good as well for puja room. It is the zone of the Gurus.

These include the worshiping of Baba Lokenath, Sai baba, Lord Mahavir, Gautam Buddha, Sikh gurus, and so on. You can worship Jesus in this zone as well.

7. North-west zone - This zone can be utilized to worship the deceased ancestors of the family.

However, make sure to avoid praying to any deity in this zone.

8. North zone- The north zone is ideal for worshiping Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. Refrain from worshiping any other deities here.

Since both these deities are associated with financial prosperity and growth, this orientation can be considered for office and factory temples as well.

3. Which direction do you feel is suitable for the living/dining room?

Direction Signal

North

North - East East

South - East

South

South - West West

North - West

The different directions that influence the location of the living room are as follows:

North-west location: The northwest quadrant, belonging to the element of air, is an ideal location for the living room, that is, if you want to avoid late-night parties, get-togethers, etc. This quadrant indicates movement and makes guests restless, encouraging them to leave.

North-east location: This makes the living room a storehouse of positive energy and bestows the users with serenity and mental peace.

Northern location: This quadrant of wealth and health adds a congenial ambience to the room and infuses it with positive vibrations.

South-west location: This attracts guests like flies to sugar. Since this corner makes one feel quite at home, the guests may become pests. However, this quadrant is favourable for the occupants.

4. Which is the best direction for the kitchen? INDICATORS

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West West

North - West

• According to Vaastu, for an east-facing house, the southeast is the ideal direction for the kitchen. If the kitchen is not located in this direction, then we can position the kitchen towards the North-West direction.

• We should not make our kitchen in North, West, and North East directions.

• The southeast or northwest direction can be considered for designing a kitchen for a west-facing house.

• Making a kitchen above and below the toilet or bathroom is not correct. A bathroom or toilet is such a place where we throw our waste. If these two stays on top of each other, this can cause negative and positive energies to conflict. This situation is not right for the homeowner. Due to this, there can be an increase in the scarcity of money in the house, and the work being done can get spoiled.

• The kitchen should never be made above or below the bedroom. Also, the stove should not be in front of the kitchen door. This will

allow all the positive energy to flow out of the kitchen through the door.

• The main door of the kitchen should not be in the corner. Make a wall in the east, west, or north direction.

• Having a kitchen in the northeast does not give a good sign. By doing this, mental tension increases among the family members. There is also an increase in the risk of losing work.

• A kitchen should not be in a South-West direction. By doing this, there may be quarrels in the family, and there may also be a rift in the relationship.

• It is dangerous to make the kitchen in the north direction. This is the direction of Lord Kubera. Creating a kitchen in this direction increases the negativity of the house.

5. Which direction is suitable for the master bedroom?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

There is Vaastu for the master bedroom. Certain directions preferred for the master bedroom are South, Southwest, andWest. Whereas bedrooms facing the Northeast direction should not be used by elders. Usually, the master bedroom should be occupied by married couples. North east direction is not considered as very beneficial for the bedroom so try to avoid planning your bedroom either in the North or East direction as it doesn’t bring any good. One can also make a look at the pooja room designs in apartments

However, certain rules of Vaastu for master bedrooms can change according to place, for example, the above rules don’t apply to countries like the UK, USA, and Australia

If elders use a North East facing bedroom, then they can face health as well as a money problem. One can consider the North East in specific situations like having an open space in the northeast and having good scenary. Still, it is always better to consult a Vaastu Shastra specialist before you plan the bedroom.

For a newly married couple, the southwest direction is best as a master bedroom. If you are giving the master bedroom to the kids for their study, then it is best to put it in the northeast direction. If the head of the family is a female member, then the master bedroom should be in the west direction.

6. Which direction is suitable for the kid’s bedroom?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

The children’s bedroom made as per Vaastu principles ensures that the whole ambiance contributes to the child’s all-round development. In order to develop the children’s talents and skills or to give him/her a pleasant atmosphere, their bedroom must be Vaastu-compliant.

We need to always remember that the subconscious mind of a child is extremely vulnerable and very receptive to their surroundings. The subconscious mind is always active throughout the day, whether we are awake or asleep.

The energies present in the bedroom affect it constantly, even when we are not aware of it. It becomes more sensitive when it comes to children. So, a room made according to Vaastu shastra rules attracts positive energies towards it which has a positive impact on the child’s brain. The direction best suitable for children’s bedroom are as follow:-

• West-Southwest (WSW) and West are the two best directions for children’s bedrooms.

• Apart from that east is also a good option for children’s bedrooms.

• Never make children’s bedrooms in the southwest zone.

• Southeast zone is also not auspicious for children’s bedrooms.

Every child is born with unlimited possibilities and talent. We just need to provide them proper environment to develop their talent. And Vaastu-compliant bedroom can be immensely helpful in this.

As children are relatively more receptive and vulnerable, we should take adequate precautions about the kind of energy children are surrounded with. If the place where they sleep, where they spend most of their time, is full of positive energy, then it will also have positive effects on them.

7. Which direction is best suitable for the guest bedroom?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

According to Vaastu Shastra, the guest room in the house should be on the west angle because it is considered the direction of wind and moon. Constructing guest rooms in this direction helps in removing differences among the family members. Moreover, this direction is beneficial for the native.

• Guest rooms should never be constructed in the southwest direction because this direction is for the owner of the house. Construction of guest rooms in this direction creates differences in the family.

• In Vaastu, all rooms are constructed based on appropriate direction. And the best direction for the guest room is northwest because it is considered auspicious in Vaastu shastra.

• Constructing guest rooms in this direction brings peace and wealth to the native. Along with this, it brings happiness to every member of the family. Creating guest rooms in this direction channelizes positive energy and doesn't let negative energy enter the house.

8. Which direction is best suitable for bathrooms/toilets?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

The placement of the bathroom or toilet as per Vaastu is one of the most important things we should keep in mind whenever we build a new toilet in our housing plot or buy a house or flat. As previously said, incorrect placement may lead our lives to great danger. Here we come with the best and worst placement of toilets as per Vaastu.

Best placement directions of lavatory according to 'Vaastu Shastra.'

East of northeast or East ( Only for Bathrooms, not Toilets )

This direction, as per Vaastu for the bathroom, is the best choice for the bathing area. The energies of this zone make you feel more energetic after bathing, as it activates the internal positive Vaastu energies inside us. But this east or east of northeast zone is only for making your favourite bathing area. According to Applied Vaastu experts, placing a commode in this zone is strictly prohibited.

East of southeast (ESE)

This zone is also an extremely favourable zone for placing the toilet as well as a bathroom. A toilet in this zone has many mentionable benefits. It keeps anxiety, panic, and stress-related problems at bay. But suppose we are involved with any analytical jobs (i.e., economist, accountant or technical writer, engineer, scientist, etc.). In that case, a toilet in this direction is not a good idea for you as per bathroom Vaastu

South of the southwest (SSW)

This zone is again the best place for making a toilet as per Vaastu. This zone is referred to as the zone of disposal according to 'Vaastu Shastra.' So, suppose we want to get rid of all wasteful stuff from our life and not only human waste but also emotional waste or mental waste, or useless relationships as per the Vaastu rules of the toilet. In that case, this zone is ideal for constructing the bathroom or lavatory as per Vaastu.

West of the northwest (WNW)

According to 'Vaastu Shastra,' this zone is also called the zone of 'Rodan Graha' (a place where we release all our blocked emotions by crying). So, placing a toilet as per Vaastu in this zone helps the residents of our house release and remove long-blocked emotions from their minds and hearts. We all know releasing negative emotions also allows us to be free from any disease. In general, It is the best direction for the placement of toilets and bathrooms as per Vaastu shastra. Again, toilets in this direction are not a good idea for the persons involved with esoteric or cult practices, as per principles Vaastu of toilets.

The worst placement directions of lavatory according to 'Vaastu Shastra.'

There are specific zones or directions considered the worst for placement of our bathrooms or toilet Vaastu. We should better avoid these directions if it is inevitable.

East

Suppose we have already made your toilet in this zone. We should think again about reconstructing it if it is not inevitable because the toilet in this zone affects your life greatly. We face health hazards related to the liver and gallbladder lavatory in the east direction cases social issue. Even if we do not find a suitable life partner for us if we have a toilet in this zone. On the other hand, bathrooms in the east direction are preferable as per Vaastu shastra. It would help if we remembered the east bathroom is only used for bathing purposes.

West

As we know, the toilet Vaastu is used as a disposal area for our body waste. So, if you are a business person looking for profits, and business expansion, we face trouble with the toilet in the west direction. So, better avoid making toilets Vaastu in this west direction of your home.

South

Making a toilet as per Vaastu in the southern part of our home or flat will be another wrong decision, as a toilet in the south attracts legal troubles and court cases and causes health problems. So, according to Vaastu shastra, do not make your toilet in the south zone.

North

This direction is for Lord Kuber-the giver of wealth, which is considered as the most promising direction. A toilet in the north direction creates hurdles in every opportunity to earn money or in your career, according to vaastu experts.

Northeast

Bathrooms or toilets in the northeast direction have many adverse effects, such as serious health problems (neurological problems), financial crisis, and blockage of the flow of ideas according to bathroom Vaastu. So, if we don't want to invite many issues in our life, 'Vaastu Shastra' advises us not to build a lavatory in the northeast direction.

Southeast

A bathroom or toilet in this direction may cause serious health risks for the unborn child. Placement of toilets in the southeast order causes serious health issues mainly to the female residents of your house. As per Vaastu rules, business people in the family should also avoid toilets in the southeast if they do not want their payment delayed or blocked.

Northwest

Like other worst directions, the northwest zone also has many unpleasant side effects on our lives. This zone is known for disturbing the foundation of anything in life. According to 'Vaastu Shastra, the bathroom in the northwest may be responsible for all of our problems.'

South West

Construction of toilets in the southwest is the wrong decision, as the southwest direction is strictly prohibited for building lavatories as per Vaastu. A bathroom in the southwest direction may cause physical,

mental, and financial instability in life. It also affects relationships with each other in your family as Mooladhara Chakra (responsible for stability in life) within the body, which the southwest direction represents, is significantly affected by the bathroom or toilet in the southwest direction.

9. Which direction is the best location for boring?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

The Water Element governs the northern direction of any space. However, starting from North of North-West (18 Degrees from N-S Axis) to NorthEast is permissible as per Vaastu Guidelines. Even towards the East, the Water Element can be placed safely with no negative effects.

• North - This is one of the ideal directions to have the Water Element as it generates an abundance of positive attributes for the residents. The northern direction presides over a multitude of elements such as the influx of opportunities in the form of money, jobs, clients and, orders.

• North East - The Water Element is also fine here, but to a limited degree; Water boring and underground water tanks are not advisable. However, if they are already present and don't have a negative impact, one need not worry. East - Again, the Water Element is permissible here. If the area of this direction is lesser than the others, the Water Element eradicates that concern. It

elevates our social associations as well. The placement of water boring between the East and North-East is thought to be extremely positive.

• South East - Being the direction of fire, water is an anti-element here. Having the Water Element here could prove disastrous and should be avoided at all costs. It may cause accidents, theft, losses, and severe cash crunch. If the Water Element is already present here, it can be well-treated safely with no reconstructions. South –The presence of the Water Element here may cause restlessness. It may even affect your name and fame. Removing or balancing the Water Element here will lead to a relaxed mind. South-West - Here, the Water Element may cause relationship problems. Also, it may affect the stability and skill set of the occupants. Further, the presence of the Water Element between the South and South-West directions may cause unwanted expenditures.

• West - Although this direction does not support the Water Element to a great extent; in some cases, having water boring here is regarded as a good sign. It fosters the flow of gains in the space. Nevertheless, the quantity of water is to be well-regulated, too much water may lead to the gains flowing away.

• North West - The Water Element will prove to be effective here, but only if it’s present in a small quantity and with the right degree of balance. Water boring and bore wells are to be avoided here as they may result in legal challenges.

10. Which is the most suitable direction for the electric meter?

Direction Signal

North

North - East

East

South - East

South

South - West

West

North - West

There are only two directions that are suitable for placing an electric meter. The first best suitable place is southeast and thesecond option for locating the electric meter is northwest. The electric meter in the north and northeast is disturbing the fire energy at home leading to ill health in the life of individuals. The electric meter at the east lacks social relations in an individual life. Southwest is also not suitable for the electric meter as it will burn the cash stability.

VAASTU FOR LIFE

Education:

Students who have difficulty in studies can study in South-east rooms sitting in the Northeast corners of the rooms facing East. Intelligent students can select a Northeast room and study facing East sitting in the central East of the room. Students are advised to sleep with their heads to the East. They can have their beds in the South-west corners of their rooms. Experiments in medical electricity have brought to light that if a current of electricity is passed from one part of the body to another, it subdues all inflammation in that part of the body where it enters. Now, in lying down with the head placed Eastward, the current of thermal electricity which is constantly passing over the surface of the earth from East to West passes also through the body from the head to the feet and subdues inflammation. Therefore, there is a clear and healthy head, which, in turn, makes the student study and understand his lessons properly. For this reason, the sage Markandeya said that a man becomes learned by lying down with his head placed Eastward and is troubled with distressing thoughts by lying down with his head placed Westward.

Routine Conflicts:

These disturbances can sometimes be traced to the South-west. If there is a water source (water sump or well) in the South-west of the house close it by filling it up with cement or earth. If the South-west of the house is chopped off, this could also be the reason for the hostility among the family members leading to depression in the elders’ rational thinking. one should not install a door in the South or West of the South-west building because it creates family disturbances.

Health Problem:

Health is another important aspect of family happiness. General health can be improved by sleeping with the head placed South. Disturbed minds can make use of central East rooms with their beds to the Southwest corners of the room and not touching the walls.

Profession:

Contentment and happiness in our profession are other contributory factors to family happiness. Apart from looking into the placement of our room in our office and the arrangement of furniture in that room, it is necessary that we must get used to facing East. The East sector ruled by the Sun is synonymous with health physical and mental. This is how one can think properly and take fair decisions related to the profession.

Financial Problem:

We can trace the improper flow of money due to several factors. The ancient works have invariably recommended a North of North-east water source. We find that temples, which are financially prosperous, have their Pushkarnis or water areas in the North of the Northeast. If we are planning to go for a well, underground water tank, a bore, or even a swimming pool you can locate it in the North or northeast of your site. It is also said that Lord Kubera rules the North. One can place their assets like jewellery, cash, bank cheque books, property papers, and other important documents in a central North room of the house with the almirahs kept in the South-west corners of the room and opening towards the North. This way, the revenue of the family can stabilize.

CONCLUSION

Building science has its presence all over the world in different forms and they all have their own principles. From Vitruvius’s theory to feng shui to Vaastu shastra all the sciences from different parts of the world have the same message. The main purpose of building science is to lay down some guidelines for the architects to design a building in harmony with nature and take advantage of the prevailing natural gifts of sunlight, wind, and cosmic energy to make a habitat that is beneficial to the inmates and make their life happy and prosperous.

Thus from the above, it can be concluded that directions have great significance in Vaastu Shastra. Vaastu directions are not mere points on a compass; they are energy centres ruled by a god, with the help of a planetary Lord. The principles of architecture have been designed and practiced using these elements as the foundation.

The North, South, East, and West are the four main Vaastu directions, also known as cardinal directions. There are also four ordinal directions or sub-directions, southeast, southwest, northeast, and northwest. All the eight Vaastu directions are thought to be influenced by particular divinities, planets, and forces, and have their own distinct characteristics.

These Vaastu directions are the most prominent and significant topic in Vaastu shastra. Without knowing the direction of the position of a house, a piece of property, or a factory, we can’t determine if it has a positive or negative Vaastu effect. Vaastu Directions are nothing more than a human body’s eye, and they play a critical role. Without them, no Vaastu expert in the world can provide any advice to the homeowner.

REFERENCES

❖ Shukla, D. N. (1993). Vaastu Shastra - Hindu Science of Architecture, New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal.

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❖ Secrets Of Vaastu Shastra, By N. H. Sahastrabudhe and R.D. Mahatme.

❖ Rao, D. M. (1995). Vaastu Shilpa Shastra: The Hidden Treasures of Vaastu Shilpa Shastra and Indian Traditions. Bangalore: S. B. S. Publishers.

❖ V.V.Raman (1996), Principles and Practice of Vaastu Shastra.

❖ Gayatri Devi Vasudev (1995), Vaastu, Astrology and Architecture.

❖ B.B.Puri (1997), Applied Vaastu Shastra in Modern Architecture.

❖ Acharya DK Bubba, 2005- The Spirit of Indian Architecture,

❖ S.Suriyanarayanam, D.Muthu and C.Venkatasubramanian, Application of Vaastu Shastra in Modern Architecture, Shastra University Tanjavur, Tamilnadu.

❖ Vibhuti Chakrabarti (1998), Indian Architectural Theory, Contemporary use of Vaastu Vidhya