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ENVIRONMENTAL
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A
SYNOPSIS / RESEARCH PROPOSAL
SUBMITTED TO THE
Hindu
School of
architectur
e FOR
THE
DEGREE
Of
Bachelor
in
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Architectu
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T
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PROF. DR.
JAVED SAROSH,
FACULTY OF
HINDU SCHOOL
OF
ARCHITECTURE
, SONEPAT
3
DECLARATION BY THE CANDIDATE
Vinayak Wadhwa
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Vinayak Wadhwa
5
B.Arch , 9th Sem.
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ABSTRACT
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
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4.4 VS in Manu-Shastra 36
4.5 VS in Arthashastra 36
4.6 VS in Kamasastra (KS) 37
4.7 VS in Ayurveda (AVD) 38
5 Environment in Vedas 39
5.1 Introduction 39
5.2 Trees and Environment in Vedas 39
5.3 Air and Environment in Vedas 40
5.4 Water and Environment in Vedas 41
5.5 Earth and Environment in Vedas 42
5.6 Fire and Environment in Vedas 43
5.7 Purification of Environment through river, mountain, sun and cloud in 45
5.8 Vedas 46
5.9 Trees and Ground water in Vedas 46
5.9.1 Five Element of Environment 47
5.9.2 Ether 47
5.9.3 Air 47
5.9.4 Fire 48
5.9.5 Water 48
Earth
6 Tirupati Temple: Perfect Vastu (A Case Study) 49
7 Vastu Concepts 52
7.1 Vastu and Sun’s Position Throughout the Day 52
7.2 How to use Vastu Shastra Scientifically 53
7.2.1 Introduction 53
7.2.2 Shape of a Plot 54
7.2.3 Guidelines given by Vastu about facing of site 56
7.2.4 Some special shaped sites 57
7.2.4.1 Triangular sites 57
7.2.4.2 Circular shaped sites 57
7.2.4.2.1 Case Study Sanchi 58
7.3 Row houses 60
7.3.1 Positive and negative influence 60
7.3.2 North and south facing 60
7.3.3 East and west facing 61
7.4 Apartment blocks 61
8 Building Materials recommended by Vastu 62
8..1 Introduction 62
8.2 Classification of Building Materials 63
8.2.1 Classification of Building materials according to Varna 63
8.2.2 Classification according to Linga 63
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8.2.3 Classification according to AAyu 64
8.2.4 Classification according to Avastha 64
8.3 Guidelines for trees cutting 66
9 Land according to Vastu 67
9.1 Introduction 67
9.2 Land Examination Through Vastu 67
9.2.1 Examinations 67
9.2.2 Measurements 68
9.2.3 Rectangular plots 69
9.2.4 Square plots 69
9.2.5 Gau-Mukhi Plots 69
9.2.6 Sher Mukhi Plots 70
9.2.7 Oval, Circular or Elliptical plots 70
9.3 Experimentations 70
9.4 Salya Vicara (defects in land based on bones buried beneath them) 73
9.4.1 Methods finding the probable location and type of Salya 73
9.5 Conclusion 75
10 Vastu and Energy Conservation 76
10.1 Introduction 76
10.2 Doors and Windows 76
10.2.1 Doors according to Vastu Shastra 76
10.3 Boring, Wells and Groundwater tanks 79
11 Conclusion 81
11.1 Environment Conservation and Vastu Shastra 81
11.1.1 Orientation Principles 81
11.1.2 Conservation of water 82
11.1.3 Cultivation of Gardens and trees 82
11.1.4 Use of natural building materials 83
11.1.5 Plumbing, drainage and waste disposal 83
11.1.6 Consideration to the life stage of wood 84
11.1.7 Medicinal Plantation 84
11.1.8 Less new construction 84
Bibliography 85
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Shiva/Parvati: Shiva is the creator and destroyer; the passage of time and
new life created from destruction. He is usually depicted with a blue throat
and his sacred animal is Nandi, the Bull. He has four arms, usually holding a
bow, a club, a drum and a noose. His symbol is the linga, or phallus, often
accompanied by a female yoni.
Vishnu/Lakshmi: Vishnu has ten major incarnations. Matsya, Kurma,
Varcha, Narshima, Vamana, Parsurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Kalki.
Vishnu began as a minor cosmic deity, but developed to make up the apex of
the modern Hindu pantheon. He is often depicted with his consort Lakshmi
resting on a lotus. His sacred animal is Garuda, the half man- half bird
creature.
Brahma/Lakshmi: Symbol of creation connected with the origin and
control of the Universe, Bhrama has four faces of which only three are
normally visible. These represent the four Vedas. His four hands denote the
four directions and hold objects such as rosary, water pot, book, sceptre,
spoon, bow, or lotus. The swan is his vehicle.
Ganesh: Ganesh has elephant’s head, four to ten arms, and a rounded belly.
The fourth hand is in
The Vedic Deities: the Gods may have been the result of the fusion of ideas
brought in by migrants and those of the indigenous people, which were
eventually written down in the form of the Vedas. Each deity was visualized
as assuming human or animal form. Nirrti is both the female and male,
being Goddess of Destruction and Lord of Demons.
14
1
Vastu means to dwell and Vidya means science. So, Vastu Vidya is the sacred
science related to designing and building houses. Vastu is rooted in Vedic
philosophy, which emerged around 4500 years ago. Vastu aims to balance
between the home (the microcosm) and the cosmos (the macrocosm),
bringing health, walth and happiness. According to Vastu, the external and
the internal are interchangable, for the underlying energies that govern the
elements, such as wind or fire, are the same as those that control the organs
of the human body. However in recent times, the essential connection
between the two has been forgotten, modern humankind having dissociated
15
itself from the fundamental forces that govern the universe. As a
consequence the society has become scattered and restless, alienated from
the natural world. The chaos in and destruction of the earth’s delicate eco-
system and the rapid extinction of species are menifestations of this
dichotomy.
1
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rj
a&uact=8&ved=0CAYQjB0&url=htt
p%3A%2F%2Fshrifreedom.org%2Fayurveda%2Fvastu%2F&ei=z5gVVYq2H9eVu
ATrhoDIDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&
psig=AFQjCNHgv5s8s5mvpNecwfCj_EMvRpXsHg&ust=1427564994925245
16
Vastu states that when buildings and forms echo the underlying cosmic
principles, they become a part of the basic structure of the universe and
vibrate in harmony with it. These positive vibations have a direct effect on
the inhabitants. Vastu contains the hidden key to realigning the home with
the cosmic principles such as solar energy, the movement of the celestial
spheres, the magnetic field of the earth, gravity and the influence of the
moon and sun. It offers a holistic approach to the design and layout of
houses. Although the principles of Vastu are constrained by ancient universal
laws, they are unconditioned by time and remain as relevant today as they
were 4500 years ago. Not are they confined to a particular country, climate
or hemisphere.
In Vastu, it is understood that energy lines run like a large grid across the
earth, from north to south and from east to west. Orientating living and
working spaces using a compass in accord with these space directions has a
direct influence on the residents. This electromagnetic field affects the
human body at a vibratory level, as each single cell in the body acts like a
reciever. Human conciousness also respods instinctively to the cardinal
directions: the east is the direction from which the sun rises, ushering each
17
new day, thereby representing the essence of all beginnings; the west
indicates the opposite, for as the sun we are reminded of endings, the
unknown and darkness; north is the direction of polar star, the fixed point in
the sky that denotes stability and security; the south represents the past and
our ancestry. The cardinal forms represent the earth and the ground rock,
from which all the foms emerge.
2
Source: http://www.viewzone.com/magnetic.weather1.jpg
18
3
3
Source: https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=HN.608022843975929780&pid=15.1&P=0
4
Reference: book “Vastu Vidya— the Indian art of placement”, by Juliet Pergrum, page no. 12.
12
5
The energy chalnnels of the body, or nadis recieve subtle cosmic energy
referred to as prana6. Vastu stipulates that if prana functioning properly
within the home, it ensures good health, wealth and happiness. Those who
ignore the advice of the Vastu Shastra will experience continual sorrow and
disappointment. If we translate prana in english, then it would mean life and
the only thing which sistain life on earth is Oxygen. So prana is required to
be incorporated in the house which can be obtained by ether elemnt and the
air element. By providing suffiecint open space in the house and a good
ventilation system (prana) can be maintained in life. This is scientifically
true as well! If we have deficiency of oxygen in the house then the
inhabitants will suffer from suffocation and anarerobic respiration
conditions. This will continously disturb their energy level, sleeping cycle,
mental and physical health etc. so those inhabitants will naturally not able to
perform nicely in their field of work a this will automatically bring sorrows
and disappointments in their lives.
In my opinion, all the modern engineers and planners must practice VS, as
with its recommendations the life can become more easy and happy going. It
is not just a myhological description of orientation, plannig etc. but each and
every recommendation having its scientific reason. Some are known while
12
research needs to be carried out for rest. In my dissertation I have tried to
give suffiecient reasons for the Vastu Shastra being an eco-friendly practice
of construction.
5
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rj
a&uact=8&ved=0CAYQjB0&url=htt
p%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepointindia.com%2Femember%2Fe-
journalnovember.aspx&ei=BpoVVeCmCYqiugTx5IHIDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2
E&psig=AFQjCNHgv5s8s5mvpNecwfCj
_EMvRpXsHg&ust=1427564994925245
6
Reference: book “Vastu Vidya— the Indian art of placement”, by Juliet Pergrum, page no. 13.
13
Chapter 2
2.1 EARTH
The earth or Prithvi is a huge life sustaining globe, 12800 km (7500 mile) in
diametre, revolving in a relentless orbit around the sun that takes 365¼ days
to complete. The earth too spins on its own axis (N- S axis) in a cycle that
takes 24 hours to complete one rotation, thereby creating day and night.
Earth is
the third planet of Solar System which is 150 million km (94 million miles)
from the sun. This is the reason why Earth sustains life. Unlike other planets
Earth enjoys optimum levels of heat to sustain its fertile environment. Three
quarters of its surface is covered by water, which in combination with three
of the other four natural elements air, fire and earth make life on Earth
posible.
The Vastu Shastra principles are purely scientific and deals with the various
type of energies affecting our planet and lives. These energies affect our
daily as well as yearly lives. Moon is known to affect daily life as due to
gravitational pull only the high and low tides are generated in the Sea which
is a huge water body. Likewise our body has 70 percent water in it and hence
due to this moon’s gravitational effect affects our daily life. According to
VS, there is an entricate system of energy lines covering the earth like a grid.
These lines run from dipolar magnetic points of north and south and from
east to west, along the path of the sun. A plot of land demarcated in the
shape of a square or rectangle exhibits the same characteristics in terms of
the movement of energy as the entire planet Earth. Using the image of the
square, the ancient Sages calculated the proportion of each compass
direction. The four major compass directions North, South, East and West
14
form a cross and are at 90 degree to one another. The earth’s axis is tilted at
an angle of 23.5 degree; the Ancients divided that number into 360 degree
which leaves an average number of 15 degree. Therefore an angle of 15
degree is taken from each corner of the major directions of 90 degree,
totalling 60 degree in all, and leaving reminder of 30 degree. Therefore it is
calculated that each major direction has an angle of 60 degree and each of
the junctional directions, such as N-E has an angle of 30 degree.
15
7
The Earth
By calculating the proportion of each direction the Ancient Sages were able
to calculate which area of any given space the different directions influence.
If properly designed and oriented then the house will absorb all the positive
natural energies, thus ensuring the well being and contentment of its
inhabitants. With proper care and attention, the design and layout of houses
can echo the underlying energy patterns at work in the cosmos. The house
naturally beomes a part of the fabric of the universe, vibrating in harmony
with it, which ultimately benifits the entire planet.
16
2.2 THE SEASONS AND THE WINTER AND SUMMER SOLSTICES
The Earth makes a complete revolution around the sun once every 365 days,
following an orbit that is elliptical in shape. This means that the distance
between the Earth and Sun which is 93 million miles on average, varies
throughout the year. During the first week in January, the Earth is about 1.6
million miles closer to the Sun. This is referred to as the perihelion8. The
aphelion9, or the point at which the
7
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2
Fscijinks.jpl.nasa.gov%2Fsolstice%2F&ei=8csWVZKeBZfluQSC8IGwCQ&bvm=bv.893814
19,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCNHKYV2a3gWtQrvqoA fF0Zp3Vop2aw&ust=1427643740168132
8
Reference: Book “Surveying Volume 3”— by BC Punmia, Ashok Kumar Jain, Arun Kumar
Jain, page no. 40.
9
Reference: Book “Surveying Volume 3” —by BC Punmia, Ashok Kumar Jain, Arun Kumar
Jain, page no. 40
17
Earth is about 1.6 million miles farther away from the sun, occurs during the
first week in July. This fact may sound counter to what we know about the
seasons in the Northern Hemisphere, but actually, the difference is not
significant in terms of climate and is not the reason why we have seasons.
Seasons are cause by the fact that earth is tilted on its axis by 23.5 degree.
The tilt’s orientation with respect to space does not change during the year,
thus the Northern hemisphere is tilted toward the sun in June and away from
the sun in December.
There are only two times of the year when the Earth’s axis is tilted neither
towards nor away from the sun, resulting in a nearly equal amount of
daylight and darkness at all latitudes. These events are referred to as
Equinoxes. The word Equinox is derived from two Latin words- aequus
(equal) and nox (night). At the equator, the sun is directly overhead at noon
on these two equinoxes. The nearly equal hours of day and night is due to
refraction of sunlight or a bending of light’s rays that causes the sun to
appear above the horizon when the actual position of sun is below the
horizon. The days become little longer at the higher latitudes (those at a
distance from the equator) because it takes the sun longer to rise and set.
Therefore, on the equinox and several days before and after the equinox, the
length of day will range from about 12 hours and six and a half minutes at
the equator to 12 hours and 8 minutes at 30 degrees latitude, to 12 hours and
16 minutes at 60 degrees latitude.
18
10
10
Source:
http://www.google.co.in/imgres?imgurl=http://thewatchers.adorraeli.com/wp-
content/uploads/2011/03/vernal-
equinox.jpg&imgrefurl=http://thewatchers.adorraeli.com/2011/03/20/vernal-
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2.4 THE SOLSTICES (SUMMER AND WINTER)
The summer solstices occur at the moment the earth’s tilt towards from the
sun is at maximum. Therefore, on the day of the summer solstice, the sun
appears at its highest elevation with a noontime position that changes very
little for several days before and after the summer solstice. The summer
solstice occurs when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer, which is
located at 23.5 degree latitude North, and runs through Mexico, the
Bahamas, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India and the southern China. For every
place north of the tropic of Cancer, the sun is at its highest point in the sky
and this is the longest day of the year.
11
20
equinox-launches-
spring/&h=480&w=640&tbnid=9hCQlqHpxSoDRM:&zoom=1&docid=JhAXU
qE4HaKM2M&ei=6-
EWVbDPM4ipuwS084HIDg&tbm=isch&ved=0CFkQMygzMDM
11
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2 Fwww.theasiasun.com%2Fsummer-solstice-june-
21th-2011-is-longest-day-of-the-
year%2F921911%2F&ei=Y9MWVZ3pJcbauQSTlYHQDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=
AFQjCNE1KjsLSqn8YHnZvGwrYHsMqiFuWw &ust=1427645604450926
21
The winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. In
the Northern Hemisphere, it occurs when the sun is directly over the Tropic
of Capricorn, which is located at 23.5 degree south of the equator and runs
through Australia, Chile, southern Brazil and northern South Africa. The
orientation principles of Vastu Shastra are based on the Sun’s movement and
the Seasonal variations due to which the temperature of earth increases and
decreases. The VS principles are set in accordance to the India’s
geographical location in the globe. These principles will be applicable to all
the countries and places whose geographic conditions are similar to that of
India. The sages analysed and observed each and every little activity on the
earth and then inferred few important points with regard to Indian weather
and Sun’s movement conditions. These important observations and their
conclusions are available to us in the form of Granth, Shastra, holy books
etc. Their findings are based on the scientific reasons and not just based on
mythology.
The earth acts like a huge magnet with the dipolar points lying at the North
and the South Poles. The Greeks were aware of magnetism as early as 600
BC. They got to know about magnetism through a magnetic rock
Iodestone12 which is naturally magnetic. Thales (600 BC), a Greek Scientist
noted the attractive force in a naturally occurring material called Iodestone
which was made up of iron ore. Each piece of Iodestone has a pole at either
end that repels the similar and opposite poles of other magnets respectively.
Chinese used Iodestone magnetic compass in the first century for navigation.
It is believed that the intrinsic magnetic properties of the earth have existed
for at least 3000 million years. Although the exact reason behind the
generation of magnetic fields in earth is still under research. Our ancient
Sages were aware about the geomagnetic fields and believed that the earth is
surrounded by electromagnetic energy in the form of a grid pattern. This
electromagnetic energy affects the human mind mind and body at a very
subtle vibratory level.
22
12
Reference: Book “Electricity and magnetism grade 5-8”, By John B. Beaver, Ph.D., Don
Powers, Ph.D.
23
13
The human body too has the characteristics of a magnet with head acting as
a North pole of a magnet. For this reason Vastu recommends not to sleep
with head pointing North as the two similar poles will repel each other and
this will cause disturbance in blood circulation. The blood’s basic
constituent is haemoglobin, which is an iron compound, and for this reason,
our whole body acts like a magnet. The electromagnetic energy radiates
through the top of the head, the point known as the thousand petal lotus 14 in
India, down through the spine and into the entire nervous system. (This is so
because Bhrama, the Lord creator of Universe rules the central space called
Bhramasthan. His position resembles with the naval of the Vastu Purusha.
He was born from a golden egg, though other myths says he was born from
a thousand petal lotus. Lotus is the symbol of purity, red lotus particularly
symbol of creation. Bhrama’s four heads represent the four Vedas while his
four hands represent the four directions. He has lotus, vessel of water and a
book in his hands.) By keeping this energy balanced within the body perfect
health is maintained. So buildings constructed in alignment with the
geomagnetic field of the earth directly benefits the inhabitants.
13
Source: https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=HN.608005389235849404&pid=15.1&P=0
14
Reference: Book ―Vaastu: The Art And Science Of Living‖, By Ashwini Kumar, page no.
87.
18
15
Magnetic North lies at 11 degree from true north at the Earth’s pole. The
angle between the true north and the magnetic north is known as the angle of
Declination. The orientation of living spaces recommended by Vastu is
towards the true north. With the beneficial rays of the morning sun entering
from the east and the earth’s magnetic pull to the north. The Ancient Sages of
India visualized that cosmic energy is received from the N-E and moves
towards the S-W. The N-E direction is known as Ishanya in Sanskrit,
meaning purity, representing all that is good in the universe. According to
Vastu, there should be no doorways and exits in the S-W corner. By keeping
the SW corner blocked, the positive energy entering from the N-E direction
will be prevented from leaving. The S-W corner of any home is called as
preserving zone.
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The Sun is the source of life on our planet Earth. The Sun is the centre of the
solar system of Milkiway galaxy in the universe. The Sun is not a planet but,
a star which has its own heat and light. The Sun is 94 million miles away
from the Earth. The speed of the light in vacuum as 3 lac Km per sec. The
Sun is a complex celestial body that consists of hot gases. These gases just
like our atmosphere or the ocean take on gravitational affects of planets
surrounding the Sun. The gases produce waves/tides due to the planets
15
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&
ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2
Fwww.democraticunderground.com%2Fdiscuss%2Fduboard.php%3Faz%3Dview_all%26addres
s%3D222x49843&ei=QtkWVezSAsS9
ugT4woLYDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCNEcTImoj6_W08jHibNemVScqD_1
Mg&ust=1427647151705088
16
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2 Fwww.magnetic-therapy-
greatness.com%2Fmagnetic-therapy-for-
back.html&ei=g9kWVfmrL4KpuQSRroLYDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCNEc
TImoj6_W08jHibNemVScqD_1Mg&ust=1427 647151705088
21
gravitational pull. It works just like the Moon-ocean dynamic. The Sun is
worshiped as Lord in almost every religion, most specifically in Hindu
Religion. The radiating heat and light from Sun is not just important for
physical activities but also for mental and spiritual activities. Estimated to be
over 5,000,000,000 years old, the sun is enormous ball of glowing gas, most
of which is hydrogen slowly being turned into helium. The scientific reason
for this enormous heat energy is nuclear reaction. The atomic fusion releases
energy that permeates throughout the solar system. It not just produces heat
and light but also a strong and powerful electro-magnetic field. This
magnetic field is the master of our day today life. The science of Astrology
and affects of different planets on our daily life is also related with this
magnetic field. Being the centre of the solar system, it has been proved that
Sun has a great gravitational pull and push which determines the orbit of the
planets through space.
In Vastu Shastra, the Sun is considered the Lord of East! It is a universal fact
that sun rises from east and sets in west. Sun is Known as ―Golden Jewel of
Heaven‖ and is worshiped by mankind, the Lord of East, who storms across
the skies in a flaming chariot drawn by seven horses or one horse with seven
heads. His Sanskrit name is surya17, meaning to shine. The Sun is symbol of
pure energy, shakti. Even in Vedas,
the Sun has been given due respect and honour. The most auspicious prayer
in Rig-Veda is Gayatri Mantra18, which is an invocation to the Sun God,
asking for his protection. There is also famous Surya Mandal Stotra, a
section from Indian epic Ramayana. This part of an invocation to the Sun
made by Lord Rama at the request of Maharshi Agastya before he enters
Lanka to do battle with the demon king Ravana. The Surya Manadal Stotra
is made up of twelve verses or stanzas, which worships the Sun’s movement
into the twelve houses, representing the twelve calendar months.
22
17
Reference: Wikipedia: Surya (/ˈsʊərjə/; Sanskrit: सर् ् य Sūrya, "the Supreme Light"
18
Reference: Wikipedia: Gayatri Mantra (RigVedaIII.62.10) refers to 'understanding', and its
cognate word Buddhi.
23
19
The movement of the Sun: orientation plays a crucial role in Vastu Shastra.
The East is the position from which the Sun rises every day and therefore
represents the quintessence of all the beginnings, so the occupants of a
building derive maximum benefits from the Sun’s eastern rays. The morning
sun emits ultra-violet rays, which contain more light and less heat than later
on in the day. UV rays trigger the formation of vitamin-D in our body when
the bare skin is exposed to the sun. These UV rays also acts as purifier,
killing germs and disease carrying bacteria. As the sun moves towards the
west it grows hotter, emitting more infer-red rays, which are detrimental to
the health.
It is explicitly laid down in VS that more space, more doors and windows and more
balconies and verandahs should be provided in the northern and eastern directions,
so that there can be an unhindered passage for the morning rays. This means that
large plants and trees, high fences and any obstruction should be avoided in the
21
north and east. It is even better if the ground level is lower towards the east and
north. The energy released by the sun in the form of solar wind is known in India as
the “breathe of God”. It contains both negative and positive particles that filter
through each individual vibration level of the earth’s atmosphere as electricity,
magnetism, and light.
19
Source:
http://www.google.co.in/imgres?imgurl=http://images.nationalgeographic.com/wpf/
media- live/photos/000/065/cache/glowing-sun-
prominence_6594_600x450.jpg&imgrefurl=http://science.nationalgeographic.com/sc
ience/photos/sun-
gallery/&h=450&w=600&tbnid=tpuEqUs5oIPYiM:&zoom=1&docid=cWSmkutmx
BD5gM&ei=7eIWVcKgCtDHuASQlIHID g&tbm=isch&ved=0CE0QMygVMBU
22
C
hapter
3 THE
ENVIRONM
ENT AND
VASTU
3.1 INTRODUCTION
B
y: Oxford University Press
History reveals that human race was once afraid of nature and the natural
forces. Human beings worshiped nature and considered nature as superior to
human race. Enormous increase in human population raised the demand of
development and increased the consumption of various natural resources
resulting in environmental deterioration.
23
The term environment describes the sum total of physical and biotic
conditions influencing the responses organisms. More specifically, the sum
of those portions of the hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere into which
life penetrates is the biosphere. Environment is anything which surrounds
you. The description of environment can be different for different living or
non living beings. For example, in ancient periods the Saints had
environment full of green fresh plants, trees, hills and mountains, some had
environment consisting of flowing rivers, lush green fields etc. And today
the examples of environment usually includes roads, traffic, hospitals, dirt,
noise and smoke etc. Earth was common to both the examples but see the
drastic change in description of environment! We have today completely
changed the definition of environment. For the urban people now
environment is one which surrounds them. In today’s urban environment,
there are very few trees and green fields. Today’s environment is in
24
fact surrounded by pollution and it would not be wrong to say that now the
pollution has become the environment’s environment!
3.2.1 BIOSPHERE
Biosphere is that part of the earth, water and atmosphere in which many
smaller ecosystems exist and function. Three main subdivisions of the
biosphere are:
1. Lithosphere, (land)
Earth's atmosphere can be divided into five main layers from highest to
lowest, these layers are:
25
2. Thermosphere: The top of the thermosphere is the bottom of the
exosphere, called the exobase. Its height varies with solar activity and
ranges from about 350–800 km (220–500 mi; 1,100,000– 2,600,000 ft).
The International Space Station orbits in this layer, between 320 and
380 km (200 and 240 mi).
20
Reference: PGDEM EPCO, Course material Unit -1, Principle atmospheric layers.
26
3.2.1.5 Troposphere: The troposphere begins at the surface and extends to
between 7 km (23,000 ft) at the poles and 17 km (56,000 ft) at the equator,
with some variation due to weather. The troposphere is mostly heated by
transfer of energy from the surface, so on average the lowest part of the
troposphere is warmest and temperature decreases with altitude. The
tropopause is the boundary between the troposphere and stratosphere.
27
part of the spheres of the Earth, the cryosphere (corresponding to ice) as a
distinct portion of the hydrosphere, as well as the pedosphere (corresponding
to soil) as an active and intermixed sphere. The atmosphere of the Earth
serves as a key factor in sustaining the planetary ecosystem. The thin layer
of gases that envelops the Earth is held in place by the planet's gravity. Dry
air consists of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% argon and other inert gases,
such as carbon dioxide. The remaining gases are often referred to as trace
gases, among which are the greenhouse gases such as water vapour, carbon
dioxide,
methane, nitrous oxide, and the ozone. Filtered air includes trace amounts
of many other chemical compounds. Air also contains a variable amount of
water vapour and suspensions of water droplets and
28
ice crystals seen as clouds. Many natural substances may be present in tiny
amounts in an unfiltered air sample, including dust, pollen and spores, sea
spray, volcanic ash, and meteoroids. Various industrial pollutants may also
be present, such as chlorine (elementary or in compounds), fluorine
compounds, elemental mercury, and sulphur compounds such as sulphur
dioxide [SO2].
Nitrogen N2 78.08%
O2
Oxygen 20.95%
H2O
*Water 0 to 4%
Ar
Argon 0.93%
CO2
*Carbon Dioxide 0.0360%
Ne
Neon 0.0018%
He
Helium 0.0005%
CH4
*Methane 0.00017%
H2
Hydrogen 0.00005%
N2O
*Nitrous Oxide 0.00003%
O3
*Ozone 0.000004%
* variable gases
Table No. 1
21
eBook PhysicalGeography.net, Chapter 7: Introduction to the atmosphere, table: 7a-1.
26
3.4 ECOLOGY
3.4.1 INTRODUCTION
2. It deals with system of levels higher than the organism in the spectrum of
organisation of genes, cells, organs, organisms, populations and
communities.
Like other divisions of biology, ecology has also been divided into plant and
animal ecology. But in recent years, there is a growing realization of the fact
that that in any biological organisation, the plants and animals sharing the
same habitat are interdependent in many ways. Ecology is usually divided
into:
27
24 25
Chapter
6 TIRUPATI TEMPLE: PERFECT
VASTU (A CASE STUDY)
Temples are one of the oldest, strongest, and most durable structures existing
in India. It’s really hard to believe that huge engineered and mechanically
28
constructed structures fails during any natural disaster, while hundreds of
years old structures stand still erect and undamaged! The main reason of
studying Vastu was this thought only. It is really hard to believe that temples,
forts etc. built in Ancient period, where no machinery, no advanced technique
and no material science were present, even today carry load of hundreds of
devotees, tons heavy idols of Gods, hanging Ghantas (whose weight may
exceed hundred
24
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2
Fwww.meetup.com%2Fseattlemindtravelers%2Fevents%2F105169982%2F&ei=7bMVVcP2M
c2QuATh5IDIDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.
c2E&psig=AFQjCNEJm3xoPNhyOFAQP0LftysvxJClkg&ust=1427572070348075
25
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2 Fimgarcade.com%2F1%2Fether-element-
symbol%2F&ei=GLYVVdb1OtLJuATxjIDQDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCNH
S2iH6mNU0dJOXVum3c9VpmMvCYg&ust=14 27572539474716
29
kilograms) are still in service. While in today’s era, a slight earthquake can
also destroy so called strong and durable RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete)
structures. Being a civil engineer, I do not contradict the facts like RCC is a
strong, durable and economical material for building construction but just
want to highlight the super efficient structures of India which were based on
Vastu and are safe for taken into use even today. This is not just due to
material used, but also due to correct and efficient planning in accordance
with cosmic, geomagnetic and gravitational energies. The following is one
such case study of the world famous temple of South India, Tirupati Balaji
Temple. This piece I have included from the book “Vastu Vidya—the
ancient art of placement” written by Juliet Pegrum and foreword by
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen
There are three main temples at the site: Tiruchanur, Tirupati and Tirumala.
Tiruchanur is the gateway next to the Swarnamukhi river, which leads to
Tirupati. Tirupati is the largest temple complex, situated on the plains
between the river and the mountains. The actual shrine to Lord
Venkateshwara is located at Tirumala temple, which lies on a hill that is part
of the mountain range designated as Eastern Ghats. This is the heart of the
Tirupati, the peak and final destination at the end of an arduous climb. There
are paths leading in from all of the four directions: east, west, north and
south.
27
The Chola period was the time of a great renaissance in south India, with its
rebirth of classical ideas and Vedic Architecture. It was a period that
remains very much alive in the consciousness of southern Indians today. The
31
temple was built using Vastu principles to mirror universal truth: it was
intended as a place to offer unconditional surrender to higher forces and to
provide a spiritual heaven to all devotees.
26
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2 Fwww.mytourntrip.com%2Fpilgrimage-tirupati-
balaji&ei=3doWVc_CMImHuASC54HgDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCNEK8j
dASzyJ_NimO- 9afqMiyWcU8A&ust=1427647575088094
27
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2 Fwww.allindiayouth.com%2F10-indias-amazing-
visited-
temples%2F&ei=LtsWVbrgBJOLuASLxYLQDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCN
EK8jdASzyJ_NimO- 9afqMiyWcU8A&ust=1427647575088094
32
It is popular with all branches of Hinduism. The temple is set lower than the
surrounding hills, with the highest peak to the south-west of the temple,
blocking negative forces, and the lowest being towards the east. The ground
slopes from the wet towards the east. There is an abundance of water in the
area, with many waterfalls, called sacred tirthams, which also flow from
west to east. There is a sacred water tank to the north-east of temple for
pilgrims to bathe in called Swami Pushkarini. This has been carefully
positioned so as not to cross the north-east line. The temple entrances face
exactly east, while the main building lies in a south-westerly direction., with
more space towards the north and east. There is a raised platform called the
mantapam, so the south-west has been raised and is higher than the north-
east. The kitchen is positioned in the south-east corner, which is ideal for
Agni or fire. The inner sanctum, called the garbhagriham, is exactly nine
hastams square (one hastam being equivalent to 40 cm, or 16 in.), with the
main shrine facing east.
In its entire history this temple has never been plundered, despite military
operations being carried out repeatedly within a few hours’ march. In fact,
while other temples suffered desecration at the hands of successive invaders,
this temple always prospered from the victories of each new alien ruler.
33
C
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7.1 VASTU AND SUN’S POSITION THROUGHOUT THE DAY
The twenty four hours were divided into eight representing the eight cardinal
directions. The nature of each activity reflects the quality of each direction,
with the sun rising in the east, moving towards the south, and setting in the
west, to highlight the different areas of the house. Houses that are not
properly aligned have no sense of orientation, and can cause restlessness,
misfortune and sickness.
The period between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., just before sunrise, is called Brahma
Muhurta. At this time the sun is in the north-eastern section of the house.
These quiet hours are ideal for Yoga, meditation or study.
From 6 a.m. until 9 a.m., the sun is in the eastern part of the house, which
should be low lying to absorb the beneficial ultra-violet rays. This is the
time for bathing and preparing for the day, so the east is good location for
the bathrooms.
The time between 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. is known as Surya Bhagawan, when the
day properly begins and you start to feel hungry. At this time, the sun is in
the south east part of the house, which is the prime location for the kitchen.
This is also the best time for preparing food to be eaten later in the day. The
kitchen and the bathroom are both wet areas of the house positioned to
receive strong sunlight to keep them dry and hygienic.
36
After food, it is time to rest, so the time between 12 a.m. to 3 p.m. is called
Vishranti, the resting period.
The sun is now in the south, the best position for a bedroom.
Between the hours of 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. is the time for studying and work,
and the sun is now in the south-west section of the house, the ideal location
for a study or library.
Vidya Shala is when the sun is in the west of the house. The period between
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. is the time for eating, sitting or reading. The west is the
best location for the dining or sitting room.
37
Traditionally the north-west of the house was where the cow shed would
have been located. The time between 9 p.m. and 12 p.m., when the sun is in
the north-west pat of the house, was the time to attend to the animas.
Modern Vastu practitioners recommend the north-west as a good location for
another bedroom.
The time between 12 p.m. and 3 a.m., when the sun is in the northern
section, is the time for darkness and secrecy. The north is the best place to
hide treasure or valuables, to keep them protected.
This ideal layout for the house is written in the ancient Vastu texts:
Bathroom shall be in the east, south-east is the place for kitchen, south is
for bedroom, south-west for wardrobe or dressing room, west is for the
dining hall, north-west for the cow shed. Treasury shall be in the north and
Puja room in the north-east. This ensures good distribution of the solar
energy.
7.2.1 INTRODUCTION
39
28
The first and very basic step for any home making is site selection. The
directions and environment of the site plays a great role in the lives of the
inhabitants. Vastu starts from the road, so the nature of the site can be
determined by the direction of the road or roads that border it and is referred
to as north or south facing plot. Sites with two roads bordering the property
are known as ―corner site‖. It is very important that the corners are neither
rounded or cut across.
40
7.2.2 SHAPE OF PLOT
The shape of building plays a key role in site selection. The shape of any
building should be such that it brings stability in life. The stable structures
are safer and efficient in stress distribution when studied from structural
point of view. Stable structures are those which has their centre of gravity in
the middle or centre of the area. This is possible only when a shape is
symmetrical. So square or rectangle shape is considered to be the best
shapes for construction of dwellings. Square being more stable structure is
considered to be the best shape for any site of construction. This is based on
the principle of energy of sun. According to Vastu all four directions East,
West, North, South and the intersection of these: Ishan (N-E), Aagnaya (S-
E), Nairitya (S-W) and Vayavya (N-W) have special effects on the structure
and people living inside them. In a square plot, all these energies are
balanced and the house planning can be
28
Source: https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=HN.608030471838502471&pid=15.1&P=0
41
done easily. While in any other shape the energies are not properly balanced
and the planning might be difficult in that plot. In terms of Vastu Shastra, we
talk about regular and irregular shapes. All regular shapes will have their
corner angles an 90 degree. While, irregular shape buildings or rooms are
those where the corner deviate from a 90 degree angle to form either an
oblong or rhombus. An irregular shaped property with an extended corner
may have two right angles, one obtuse and one acute angle. The acute angle
is always the point of extension. However, there are few exceptions: if N-E
corner has an angle less than 90 degree, it is extended, attracting positive
energy. One or both sides of the N-E corner may be extended, this being the
only corner that can be extended fully.
North
43
North Extended south-east
corner
A south facing site: a site with a road to the south can cause
problems. It needs special attention from a Vastu practitioner,
especially if the road is at lower level than the house.
An east facing site: the road lies to the east side of the property. It is a
positive location, as the east will be unobstructed by other properties,
allowing the morning sun to penetrate the site.
A west facing site: in this example the road is to the west, thereby
blocking the north and east. This site is considered neutral.
A north facing site: this example shows a property wind a road
running along the north. Having the north side unobstructed for the
free flow of cosmic energy is also positive.
A south-eastern site: if there is a road to the south and a road to the east,
this is referred to as a south-eastern site. South-eastern properties are
well located and are especially good sites for wome’s organization.
A north-eastern facing site: a property that has two roads bordering it,
44
one to the north and one to the east, is called a north-eastern site. If the
two roads are lower than the property, or on the same level, then this is
considered the best possible site. If the roads are higher than the
building, this will indicate possible financial problems or problems with
fertility for the occupants.
A south-western facing site: this site shows a road to the south and
another to the west. According to Vastu the south-west should be
blocked, but in this situation the south-west is vulnerable to negative
influences. This is a bad residential site, although it could be good for
business purposes. If the roads are lower than the site, this accidents,
and criminal activities, and should be avoided.
45
A north-western facing site: a north western site is one with a road
in the west and another in the north and is considered neutral.
It is preferable if the site is flat, neither humped like a tortoise nor concaved.
The only exception is if the contour of the surrounding land gently inclines,
sloping either from the west towards the east or from the south towards the
north, so that the north east is the lowest point. A hill to the south or west of
a building is fine, but never purchase a property with a hill on the north-east
side: there will be no positive sunlight and your prosperity will be blocked.
Natural water nearby is auspicious, although it is better if it is flowing from
either the south or the west towards the east or the north.
Vastu stipulates avoiding buildings near burial grounds, sites where murder
has occurred, or buildings formerly used as brothels. Also, living surrounded
by roads may make us feel insecure. Vastu also recommends to avoid the
shadows of other structures on our home. Avoid buildings that are over
shadowed by much larger structures such as industrial towers, a flyover or a
46
large tree. It is also worth checking air quality and rejecting a site that smells
unpleasant in any way, particularly locations that are near to factories and
industrial sites.
47
29
The Sanchi Stupa is a highly evolved, elaborate structure. It has the following
elements:
Four toranas or entrance gates at the North, East, South and West
48
Stone Fence Railing
Foundation
29
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8
&ved=0CAYQjB0&url=http%3A%2F%2F imgarcade.com%2F1%2Fgreat-stupa-at-sanchi-
diagram%2F&ei=SKYVVd3GKoTIuASKoYLIDg&bvm=bv.89381419,d.c2E&psig=AFQjCN
HiTVcUDg3F6edMpyYe2wbpOBT4Dg&ust=142 7568562367222
30
Reference: http://www.livevaastu.com/indian-temples-architecture
49
Chapter
10
1. INTRODUCTION
In Vastu Shastra, the doors and window positions are very important as they
let in air and light energy inside the house. If their position and orientation is
correct then it will allow positive flow of air, light and energy from the
outside to the inside and from room to room. This circulation of fresh air
inside the
house helps in maintaining the health and peace of the house. If the doors
and windows are such that through natural flow the fresh air is not taken in
50
and the stale air not given out then the room will be filled with stale and
warm air and there will be suffocation and the peace of house will not be
maintained. The door and windows are such elements which cannot be
rectified once placed so their planning in advance is necessary to ensure
healthy atmosphere in the home and also the proper inlet of light energy
throughout the day. Vastu Shastra give the following guidelines for doors:
Our ancient Sages of Vastu Shastra have recommended the even number
of doors in the house.
51
If one wants to keep only one main door then this door should be best
placed in East.
The above mentioned principles are based on some scientific reasons. Like
the doors should not be placed in opposite direction i.e. N-S and E-W. This
is so as to let air circulate in every room of the house and not just flows in
one direction making it difficult to work in that place due to wind. If main
road is passing by in the front of the door then this will invite noise pollution
in the house and the inhabitants will not be able to rest in peace.
The placement of windows can be decided on the basis of lucky and unlucky
energy positions. The Vastu Shastra in 81 foot Vastu (ikyasi pad vastu) helps
finding us the positions where lucky and unlucky energy influences. In 81
52
foot Vastu, at houses where Ish, Agni, Surya, Som and Bhrama resides, those
houses absorbs the positive and lucky energy. In these houses if sun rays
falls, then it makes the life of inhabitants energetic and active. While, the
houses where Yam, Pitra, Dwarpal, Asur, Pap and Rog resides, such houses
a reflects negative and unlucky energy when comes in contact with sunlight.
If these houses comes in contact with sunlight then the negative energy will
be increased and the inhabitants will not be able to rest in peace. Therefore it
is recommended in Vastu Shastra that these houses should be covered and
not exposed to sunlight. In these houses of a plot, it is recommended not to
construct any living place but instead should plant trees or construct a store
room. For store room Pirta and Dwarpal houses are much better.
53
39
54
Now according to the Vastu Chakra, we can easily guess that in which room
we must allow the sunlight and where not to allow. So the placement and
planning of windows can be done using Vastu Chakra. In the Houses of Ish,
Agni, Surya, Som and Bhrama, the windows should be placed in order to
invite positivity in the house. While in the Houses of Yam, Pitra, Dwarpal,
Asur, Pap and Rog, the windows should be avoided and the best way is not
to utilize these places for construction of rooms. Understanding the
principles of Vastu Chakra, the planning of doors, windows, ventilators,
veranda can be decided. Mostly windows should be planned in North and
East direction of the house. Windows
39
Source:
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=vastu+purush&biw=1093&bih=506&tbm=isch&imgil=m2
g2d5IhjR6zIM%253A%253Bz94rm4gB
Q4AuxM%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.astrogle.com%25252Fvaastu%25252
Fvastu-purush-energy-pattern-saving-
rules.html&source=iu&pf=m&fir=m2g2d5IhjR6zIM%253A%252Cz94rm4gBQ4AuxM%25
2C_&usg= MXr8oHTjRYJTSmNIMSsUe9bd yJg%3D
55
should be best avoided in West and South direction of the house, except
these two directions, the windows can be placed anywhere but preferably in
East and North. The lintel and plinth level of all the rooms should be same
throughout the house. Tough the main door’s height can be more than other
doors. This brings uniformity in house and also ensures safety of structure
by equal stress distribution.
56
In every home it is important to store sufficient amount of water, not just for
drinking and domestic use but also for cleaning the home, gardening etc. It
is advised to arrange the safe drinking and usable water in advance before
starting the construction of home. Vastu Shastra recommends few points
regarding the placement of these water storage. For this purpose well
(generally in rural areas), boring or municipal water supply can be used and
to store the water driven by these sources a water storage tank can be
constructed or kept. The Muhurta Chintamani and Brihadvastumala books
mentions the various results of placement of water tank at different
positions. It is mentioned in it:
If the tank is placed in middle of the plot then it will result in economical
loss.
57
C
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The Vastu Shastra principles are not just mythological but also based on the
various scientific reasons
which affect the planning and construction of various structures like homes,
offices, dwellings, etc. Through thorough study profound analysis only one
can find the scientific reasons behind each and every aspect and principle of
VS. Here, I have tried to find few of the scientific reasons behind the VS
recommendations relating to Orientation, slope of land, building materials,
placement of doors and windows, shape of plot, walls, hygienic sanitation,
bacteria free cooking and in total, the relation between VS and the
58
environment protection/conservation. Hence, the following points can be
concluded:
59
help increase the mental and physical strength of workers or
inhabitants. The aesthetic beauty of the structure will also be
enhanced.
2. CONSERVATION OFWATER: India is probably the only country
where inanimate forms of objects are also personified as someone
processing life, and thus we see the religious attachment that the
Hindus have with things like earth, fire, air, water, wind etc. The
clean and flowing water
body is given the status of a deity. This indicates how much respect we
owe to our natural resources and this psychologically affects the
attitude of people while using water. We pray to the water deity, we use
the water in our holy rituals and no puja is completed without water.
Similarly no purification of either Man or object is possible without
water. VS lead us to the approach of conservation of water that is
highly holy and precious. The situation of availability of usable water
has been worsened in past few decades. Scientists at the International
Conference on
―Management of Natural Resources for Self-sufficient Agriculture,
1999‖, reported that India may get enlisted in the non-water countries
by 2025, if proper measurements are not taken today. This report was
based on data collected which is as follows: In 1955, the water
availability per head was 5300 cubic meters. It got reduced to 2200
cubic meters by 1999. With the same rate, it further will go down
to 1500 cubic meters by 2025. The report also highlighted the major
reasons for this degradation of water, which includes improper
irrigation, improper storage facilities, and water pollution. Proper
planning and immediate actions are required to address this issue
effectively.
VS gives some guidelines and ideas which can help in water
conservation. VS recommends the use of various types of pots and
buckets, where the water can be stored and not wasted. The concept of
tap was not prevalent during those periods which helped in
conservation of water. This is the reason why we found water stored in
the huge pots or containers that were specially designed to serve the
60
purpose of water storage. The person wanting to make use of water
had to physically remove the water from the container, thereby
reducing the waste. In the present scenario, we can educate people on
these aspects of water conservations and even further reduce the
environmental damages caused by various plumbing materials.
3. CULTIVATION OF GARDENS AND TREES: These days the
construction of high rise buildings and compact design flats, houses
and row houses are very common. We seldom see construction of
gardens and places to relax. The increasing number of buildings
results in lesser
and lesser space inside the house, restricting the availability of fresh
air. Thus, in order to improve the quality of environment we need to
plant trees and plan gardens so that people may find place to relax and
children too can play in fresh atmosphere. We can use VS concepts to
create Puskarinis, gardens with beautiful fountains, wells etc. in and
around the housing colonies.
61
4. USE OF NATURAL BUILDING MATERIALS: In ancient periods
natural materials like cow dung, grass, tree leaves, stones, mud, lime
etc. were used for construction purposes. These materials never
polluted the environment and indeed performed much better in terms
of thermal insulation, acoustics, ventilation and strength. Stones are
considered as best material for construction and we can see the very
old temples standing still erect even after so many decades of
weathering effect and natural hazards. This clearly proves that
structures based on VS principles and constructed with naturally
occurring materials like stones, prove to be life sustaining and most
efficient structures. Man made materials used for construction, are
known to cause pollution. To process the man made materials huge
plants are installed, lot of energy is required, carbon is released in
atmosphere and a lot of non-biodegradable waste is generated which
ultimately makes the earth an dumping yard. Cement is known to be
one of the prominent and contemporary material used by construction
industries. It is extremely polluting. People living and working near te
cement manufacturing plant are most affected. Being in powdered
form, cement is susceptible to get mixed with air and in turn gets
inhaled by people. The coarse form of cement gets mixed with the air
as the particulate matter, which causes respiratory infections. These
industries release their waste water and by-products in the nearby
water bodies, thereby causing water pollution. Air. Land and noise
pollution is also caused due to such industries. Paint manufacturing
industries are too highly polluting. Cement Replacement products,
which are made up of coal ash claims to have less polluting effects
compared with cement. In this regard, Korten (1996), the founder
President of “the people Centered Development Forum”, USA
said, “Economic Globalization leads to violence, extreme
competitiveness and greed, and environmental degradation. This
ultimately results in dysfunctional societies. To change the above,
we need Ecological Revolution comparable to Copernican
revolution.” We are ignoring our traditions of wisdom, where
environment friendly materials were used. Today we need to think the
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proper use of naturl materials, prescribes by VS in reducing the use of
man-made materials, consequently reducing the environmental
problems and improving the health.
5. PLUMBING, DRAINAGE AND WASTE DISPOSAL: VS
advocates a systematically planned drainage layout. Plumbing the
drain was considered as one of the important aspects in town planning.
Silpis were aware of reducing the degradation of the surroundings
through following necessary waste disposal. Today we are facing
many sanitation related problems, waste disposal management, waste
and soil water piping, problems of plumbing, drainage issues and
spread of few very dangerous pathogenic water born bacteria which
create health related issues. Modern architectural design somewhat
leads to the insufficient space allocation for the WC’s and bathrooms.
The lack of space available for overall construction has resulted into
such matchbox sized toilets and bathrooms in modern dwellings,
especially in flat types. The percentage of space
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for bathrooms is insufficient and causes a lot of hindrance to the users
in terms of personal space and hand movements. It also restricts the
outward movement of the foul air. The foul air remains in the
atmosphere for a longer period, causing harmful effects and health.
Another important planning consideration is separation of kitchen
from the WC’s and bathrooms. But in modern planning to ease the
sewer installation the Kitchen is planned near the bathroom which
creates problem for the person working in the kitchen. Person working
in the kitchen has to suffer from the foul odour but also has to tolerate
the bacterial infestations on the food particles. The worst polluting
design is one in which the only way to toilets passes through kitchen
itself. Very few planners realise that saving of space has been done at
the cost of the health of the dwellers. Such unhygienic practice is
totally condemned by VS and that is why we find most of VS treatise
demoted the practice of housing the facilities of toilets and bathrooms
inside within the home itself, especially near the kitchen. Hence
following the principles of VS we can plan our dwellings in such a
way that our environment remains healthy and pollution free, giving
us and neighbours a better place to live in.
6. CONSIDERATION TO THE LIFE-STAGE OF WOOD: The VS
classifies the material based on their life stages into four major
categories, viz. Balatva, kaumarya, yauvana and vardhyaka. When
we talk about woods, the first stage of wood is similar to the life of
child, wherein the tree
has yet not reached maturation and is still in the very soft and supple
stage. According to VS, next
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recurrences. Many rites and rituals derive directly from the
observations of natural phenomena and cycles. Nature is sacred
because man depends entirely on it, because of this everything
sanctified, including man and the terrifying aspects of nature itself
such as glaciers, storms, etc. have to be taken as they are. The basic
tendency to look environment as God helped in developing their
lifestyles as well as spiritual advancements. Large scale degradation of
nature by over-exploitation was automatically avoided. Irrigation,
forestry practices, animal husbandry as well as agriculture helped heal
the environment and make it a better place to live.
11.1.8 LESS NEW CONSTRUCTION: VS restricts the construction of new
homes as the dwellers do not feel any need of buying and selling the
pre-owned structures. VS promotes the view of making changes or
expanding the existing homes rather than constructing new ones. A
considerable amount of the waste is generated during demolishing of
old structures. Not just the area and surrounding environment is
polluted, but also considerable amount of energy and resources is
consumed therefore degrading the environment. If the planning aspect
is given prime focus then a lot of aspects could be included in the
structure which can increase its-in use efficiency and makes it a most
suitable structure to be used for particular purposes. With little
research, the cities too can be planned using VS principles and
maximum benefit of natural resources can be drawn. Such cities will
undoubtedly check the pollution and will also be effective in providing
better drainage and sanitation facilities. Such cities will be having
sufficient greenery, the resting places will be provided and due to
proper drainage and sanitation, citizens will be able to move with ease
even during extreme weather conditions like heavy rainfall. The roads
and streets will be surrounded by trees which will protect citizens from
extreme temperature conditions and will block the harmful hot winds
blowing during summers.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
4. Arundhati, Dr. (Smt.) P.: Vastu Vidya in Manasollasa, ISBN No. 81-
901708-1-3
9. Pegrum, Juliet: Vastu Vidya— the Indian art of placement, ISBN No. 81-
7822-047-4.
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