Introduction

Background

VASTU SHASTRA is the traditional Indian system of architecture and design of Vedic origin. A part of the Vedas, the word ‘Vaastu’ in Sanskrit means ‘dwelling’, and in the modern context, it covers all buildings. Vaastu pertains to the physical, psychological and spiritual order of the built environment, in consonance with the cosmic energies. It is a study of planetary influences on buildings and the people who live in them and aims at providing guidelines for proper construction. Vaastu is a logical explanation of scientific truths and facts.

Introduction

The Vaastu Principles are related with the properties (Natural Energies) of our Mother Earth. It simply says that the sources of energies are to be open and the flow of energies is not to be disturbed. Vaastu Shastra prescribes desirable characteristics for sites and buildings based on flow of energy. Many of the rules are attributed to cosmological considerations; the Sun’s path, the rotation of the Earth, magnetic field, etc.

According to Vaastu Shastra five elements i.e., Earth, Fire, Water, Air (or atmosphere) and Sky or Space, govern the Principles of Creation.

FIRE SPACE

WATER AIR

EARTH

Figure 1: Elements of Vaastu Shastra

Vaastu believes that there are essentially two types of forces, which are equal and opposite in nature. The interaction of these two forces is cosmic ordained and produces a third type of force, which is called ‘Bio-Force’, needed for life to exist. One type of force is subtle and fine. The other is dark and dense. These forces act for or against each other to create harmony and disharmony.

Over the surface of the globe, these forces continuously interact, releasing bio-energy. When a structure is built over the surface of the Earth, it comes in the way of a natural interaction. Both the forces enter the structure where the interaction continues. However, the intensity of forces that enter the structure need not be the same. Depending on various factors like levels, water bodies, door placement etc., either the positive or the negative can have stronger presence. If the structure is designed in a manner that the positive forces override the negative forces then there is a beneficial release of bio-energy, which helps all the inmates to be healthy. Even after such reaction with the negative forces, a positive Cosmic surplus is always present in such a structure, which is the ‘Supreme Being Himself’. In such an atmosphere, life is smooth and happy with everything in life coming your way without any great struggle. It is a happy and healthy life for all the inhabitants. If on the other hand the structure is built in such a way that the negative forces override the positive then you have a weak bio-energy field which manifests as diseases in the occupants. The over bearing negative field makes your actions, efforts, thinking negative. The science of Vaastu guides you about the rules you have to follow so that the structure has a positive atmosphere.