Significance of Vastuvidya
Vastuvidya is the traditional Indian science of architecture that emphasizes spatial arrangements, design principles, and the harmonious integration of structures within their surroundings. It encompasses both technical and spiritual guidelines relevant to construction practices and highlights the interconnection between architectural principles and cosmic laws. This ancient discipline, often linked to deities like Shiva, is explored through various ancient texts, emphasizing the importance of planning, orientation, and cultural significance in architectural designs, especially in temple construction.
Synonyms: Vastu, Architecture, Design, Construction
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Vastuvidya'
Vastuvidya in Hinduism is the comprehensive knowledge and principles of architecture, intertwining technical and spiritual guidelines for construction, emphasizing harmonious integration of structures with their environment and deriving insights from ancient texts like the Agni and Garuda Puranas.
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) The study or doctrine of Vastu, potentially encompassing its various aspects and principles.[1] (2) The field of knowledge associated with Vastu principles and architectural design.[2] (3) Refers to the knowledge and study of architectural principles and their interplay with astrology, particularly auspicious timings for construction.[3] (4) The science of architecture and construction as discussed in the texts, encompassing concepts such as ground and building types.[4] (5) The body of knowledge and principles pertaining to architecture, emphasizing the technical and spiritual guidelines in construction practices in India.[5]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) The detailed knowledge or study of architectural principles, indicated in the text's context.[6] (2) The ancient Indian science of architecture and construction, associated with the principles of design and spatial arrangement.[7]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A treatise that references only the ninth plan, indicating a limitation in its discussion of the plans.[8]
The concept of Vastuvidya in local and regional sources
Vastuvidya is a crucial chapter that explores the principles and knowledge concerning house design and construction, highlighting its significance in regional texts that detail architectural practices and spatial harmony.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is an example of architecture, which along with shilpa shastra, there are substantial doubts whether the available manuals were actually consulted by practitioners, or belonged more strictly to a scientific sphere.[9] (2) Vastuvidya is a chapter that discusses the knowledge of houses, as listed in the enumeration of titles of the text.[10]