Vastu Shastra - Brief Overview

Vastu Shastra

Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture that defines principles and guidelines for designing buildings that promote harmony, balance, and prosperity.

The word Vastu means "dwelling" or "house," and Shastra means "science" or "knowledge."

The Origin of Vastu Shastra:

The origin of Vastu Shastra dates back to the Vedic times, around 5000-3000 BCE. It is believed that the principles of Vastu Shastra were first mentioned in the Rigveda, one of the oldest Hindu scriptures. The science of Vastu Shastra was developed to bring harmony between the natural environment and human habitation. It was used to design temples, palaces, and forts in ancient India.

Basics and important components of Vastu Shastra:

The principles of Vastu Shastra are based on the five elements of nature, namely, air, water, fire, earth, and space. These elements are believed to have a significant influence on human life and should be balanced in the living space to promote harmony and well-being.

Some of the essential components of Vastu Shastra are:

1. Direction: Each direction is associated with a specific element and has a unique energy. It is crucial to consider the direction while designing the building.

2. Five Elements: The five elements are crucial in Vastu Shastra, and each element has a specific direction associated with it.

3. Entrance: The entrance of a building should face a particular direction and should be in harmony with the owner's birth chart.

4. Room placement: The placement of rooms should be based on the purpose of the room and the direction.

5. Colors: The colors used in the building should be based on the direction and the purpose of the room.

Benefits of Vastu Shastra:

1. Enhances well-being: Vastu Shastra principles promote harmony and balance in the living space, which can improve the physical and mental well-being of the occupants.

2. Increases prosperity: The principles of Vastu Shastra are believed to attract positive energy, which can lead to increased prosperity and success.

3. Improves relationships: Vastu Shastra can help improve relationships between family members and colleagues by creating a positive environment.

4. Enhances creativity: Vastu Shastra can help create a conducive environment for creative thinking and ideas.

5. Provides a sense of security: Vastu Shastra principles can help create a secure and peaceful living environment.

According to Vastu Shastra principles, the following are the recommended directions for different rooms in a house:

1. Living room: The living room should ideally be located in the north, northeast, or east direction.

2. Bedrooms: The master bedroom should be located in the southwest direction, while the other bedrooms can be in the west, south, or northwest direction.

3. Kitchen: The kitchen should be located in the southeast direction. If this is not feasible, it can also be located in the northwest direction.

4. Dining room: The dining room should ideally be located in the west direction.

5. Bathroom: The bathroom should be located in the west or northwest direction.

6. Study room: The study room should be located in the northeast direction.

7. Puja room: The puja room or prayer room should be located in the northeast or east direction.

8. Store room: The store room should be located in the southwest or northwest direction.

It is important to note that the actual directions of the rooms in a house may vary depending on the layout and orientation of the house. The principles of Vastu Shastra should be used as a general guideline and adapted to suit individual circumstances.