Water Features and Aquariums as per Vastu

The North, North-East and East are the most suitable directions for an aquarium as per Vastu. These zones are associated with the water element, with Kubera in the North, and with growth and freshness in the East.

In most Mumbai homes, the living room is the natural place for an aquarium, because it is shared, visible and lived in. Within the living room, look for the North or North-East wall or corner. An aquarium in the East of the hall also works well, particularly where it receives soft morning light without harsh direct sun on the glass.

Vastu links water with the North and North-East because ईशान्य (Ishanya, the North-East) is the zone of the water element in the पंचतत्व (Pancha Tattva, the five elements). Traditionally, wells, underground tanks and water sources were located here.

The North is associated with Kubera, wealth and new opportunities. Flowing, clean water is symbolically linked with the flow of prosperity, which is why water features in the North are popular in homes, shops and offices. The key word is clean — stagnant or dirty water is considered to have the opposite effect.

Avoid placing an aquarium or fountain in the South-East, South-West, bedroom, kitchen or directly in front of the main door. Each of these zones has a quality that does not sit comfortably with moving water.

Tabletop fountains, small water bowls with floating flowers and decorative urli bowls all suit Vastu when placed in the right zone. They are easier to maintain than an aquarium and ideal for compact flats.

There is no fixed rule, but a popular tradition suggests nine fish, often eight golden or red fish with one black fish. The black fish is believed to absorb negativity, and the number nine is associated with completeness.

Far more important than the count is the wellbeing of the fish. Choose the number of fish your tank size, filter and experience can support, and follow advice from a knowledgeable aquarium shop. Overcrowded or unhealthy fish create exactly the stagnant, stressed atmosphere Vastu seeks to avoid.

Maintain the aquarium by keeping the water clean, the filter running and the fish healthy. In Vastu, the condition of a water feature matters more than its size or design.

Yes, an aquarium or fountain can be kept in an office or shop, usually in the North or North-East of the reception or waiting area. It creates a calm first impression for visitors and customers.

Avoid placing it behind the owner's seat, as water behind the back is traditionally considered unsupportive. Also avoid the cash counter area if it lies in the South-West. For restaurants and clinics, a small fountain in the North-East of the waiting area is often more practical than a large tank.

Consult a Vastu expert if your only available space for an aquarium falls in a less suitable zone, or if you are designing a new living room or office reception. Dr. Kimaya Parikh-Ambekar can identify the exact zones with a compass and suggest alternatives such as a small urli, a crystal or a painting of water.

Consultations are available at the Andheri East office, on-site across Mumbai, and as distant consultations using your floor plan and photographs.