Vastu: Its ancient literature

Mon, 03/08/2010

The foundation of Vastu is traditionally ascribed to the mythical sage Mamuni Mayan. The first source book of Vastu science and Vaastu science and technology is the Pranava Veda.

“eka eva purã vedo pranavaha sarva vãngmayha” “There was only one Veda called Pranava Veda in the remote past.” -9th Skãnda, 14th Chapter, Sloka 48 of Bhãgavatam – Veda Vyasa

This ancient work, The Pranava Veda and Vastu Science, and Vaastu science and technology was originated by a great scientist/ artist named Mamuni Mayan about 10,000 years ago. Through precise mathematical formulas Mayan was able to recreate the process of pure consciousness (Absolute Space) becoming conscious and awakened in structures such as buildings, temples, statues, dance, music and other forms of expression. These structures created in this way became “live” or living structures.

Two other ancient Rishis are linked with ‘Vastushastra’ as important pioneers - Vishwakarma and Maya Danava. Matsyapurana mentions the names of 18 sages who are said to have established the science of Vastu. These sages have been revered in history as seekers of truth and unravellers of the mysteries of the universe.

These canons are codified in texts such as, and. The following are some of the important ancient works of Vastu Shastra:

1. Viswakarma Vaastushastra (by Viswakarma)
2. Samarangana Sutradara (by Raja Bhoja)
3. Mandana Sutradhar

4. Rajasimha Vastu

5. Deeparnava

6. Silparatna 

7. Mayamatam (by Maya) 

8. Manasara Silpa Shastra (by Manasara) 

9. Manushyalaya Chandrika

10. Kashyapa Shilpa

11. Aparajita Praccha (by Viswakarma's son Aparajita) 

12. Vishwakarma PrakashSanatkumara Vastu Shastra

References to Vastu Shastra are also found in the following Agamic and Pauranic literature:

• Karnikagama
• Suprabhedagama

• Vaikhanasagama

• Hayasirsha Tantra

• Agni Purana 

• Matsya Purana 

• Vishnudharmottar Purana

• Bramhanda Purana 

• Bhavishya Purana

Treatises such as these are not popular even though they preceded the previously mentioned documents. Distinction of style exists due to each documents place of origin. Mayamata and Mansara Silpa Shastra are considered Dravidian because they are from South India whereas Viswaskarama Vaastu Shastra is considered Aryan due to its North Indian origin.

Vastu Shastra thus is a strong and a well established tradition of architecture which is rich with philosophy, legacy, ancient texts, and a sacred commitment to create each home as an abode of God.

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