Vaastu – A Spiritual Study

Vaastu-Shastra is described as a combined study of science,

art, astronomy, astrology, religion, and mysticism. It is based
on five elements of the universe known as “Panchbhutas” i.e
Earth, Water, Air, Fire and Space. These are the forces from
which our body obtains energy in various forms like heat,
wind, light, etc. Due to lack of awareness many superstitions
have taken roots in the study of Vaastu-Shastra. But in reality
behind all the astrology or religion lies the science which
results in spiritual study.
Vaastu is believed to be a part of Vedas that are said to be
four to five thousand years old(6000 BC to 3000 BC). It is said
that art of vaastu originated in Stapatya Veda (part of
Atharva Veda).Many mythological stories concern the origin
of Vaastupurush (the deity). Also a high amount of stress is
laid on considering the effects of energies ,sunlight and the
balance of Panchmahabhutas to get maximum benefit out of
it. Science behind the believes includes positive and negative
energies(on a broader level). The interaction of these forces
produces another force called ‘bioforce’ meaning force
required for existence. If the positive forces overpower the
negative forces in the structure to be built then there is
beneficial release of bio-energy thus resulting in healthy and
prosperous life. So, our ancestors took care of establishing
right energy levels by various means: proper symmetrical
layouts, correct orientations, use of appropriate materials.

At present, in already built environment we are only able to

find ways and means of harmonizing/neutralizing different
kinds of energy radiations. Vaastu is not being applied
because of holistic growth and lack of space. It is losing its
essence because man is overpowering nature to make
society materially rich. We are sucking soul out of nature.
Vaastu is diminishing due to the fact that artificial
energies(new discoveries-conventional sources) have
overpowered natural ones(BEM levels). The ever-increasing
urban growth bears a proof to the fact that awareness
regarding energy consciousness is lacking/ diminishing. Its
the need of the time that contemporary architecture needs
to understand the importance and transform itself into
“energy-aware” architecture.
This research aims at giving a brief understanding about
various aspects of Vaastu- relation with science, astrology,
art, religion and mysticism; finding the scientific reasons
behind Vaastu-Shastra, importance of Vaastu at present. The
scope of the study lies in redefining contemporary
architecture to be an energy conscious and interactive user
both during construction and maintenance thereafter.