Best Picks: Top 10 Vastu Shastra Books

Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural and design philosophy, is rooted in the belief that a structure's spatial arrangement and orientation profoundly influence its energy. The term "Vastu" translates to "dwelling" or "habitat," and Shastra means "science" or "doctrine." This practice seeks to align living spaces with the natural forces and cosmic energies to promote harmony, prosperity, and well-being. According to Vastu Shastra, the layout of a building, the placement of rooms, and even the direction a house faces can impact the flow of energy, known as "Prana" or life force. Fundamental principles involve balancing the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space) and adhering to directional guidelines. For instance, the northeast is associated with water and is considered auspicious for spiritual pursuits, while the southeast, associated with fire, is often recommended for the kitchen.   By following Vastu principles, practitioners aim to create a positive and vibrant atmosphere within living spaces. Proper alignment is believed to enhance physical health, mental clarity, and prosperity. While individual interpretations may vary, Vastu Shastra is a guide for designing spaces that resonate positively with cosmic energies, fostering a sense of balance and positivity in the environment.  

The top Vastu Shastra book recommendation

 

1. Sthapatya Veda by Dr. V. Ganpati:

   - Redefines and interprets Vastu Shastra principles.    - Emphasizes universal applicability for life-supporting buildings.    - Aim to promote harmony, wisdom, health, and financial security.    - Scholarly interpretation with demonstrations on designing processes.  

2. Vastu Architecture by Michael Bordon:

   - Clear exposition on secular Vastu building design.    - Focuses on creating structures in harmony with earth and cosmic energies.    - Fully illustrated for straightforward interpretation, accessible to a general audience.    - Provides the necessary knowledge for creating Vastu-compliant structures.  

3. Vastu Purusha Mandalam by Dr. V. Ganpati:

   - Authored work on the science of proportions and image-making.    - Published by the Government of Tamil Nadu in 1977.    - Discusses the concept of Vastu Purusha Mandala with 45 deltas.    - Illustrates the interaction of energy fields in a building.  

4. Vastu Science for 21st Century by B. B. Puri:

   - Highlights Vastu science principles for modern architecture.    - Stresses the relevance and effectiveness of Vastu in contemporary life.    - Advocates the need for Vastu principles in the 21st century.    - Offers a comprehensive solution for Vastu-based planning.  

5. Secrets of Vastushastra by N. H. Sahasrabudhe:

   - Vastushastra is defined as a science of a higher dimension.    - Based on practical observations, research, and development.    - Manipulates cosmic energy for the betterment of humankind.    - Focuses on creating harmony using cosmic forces.  

6. Architecture of Manasara by Prasanna Kumar Acharya:

   - Manasara is considered a standard treatise on architecture and sculpture.    - Describes sculptural details of idols, statues, and images from Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions.    - Emphasizes the need for sustainable and eco-friendly creations.    - Highlights Manasara as the essence of measurement.  

7. Remedial Vastu Shastra:

   - Stresses the cosmic energies exhibited by Vastu Shastra.    - Acknowledges Vastu as a promise to heaven and prosperity.    - Recognizes challenges in achieving perfect Vastu compliance in urban settings.    - Emphasizes the importance of remedial measures.  

8. Vastu: Astrology and Architecture:

   - Views Vastu Shastra as a significant aspect of astrology.    - Discusses the ancient wisdom science of architecture and engineering.    - Highlights the relevance of Vastu in modern times.    - Result of a symposium aiming to revive the lost glory of Vastu.  

 Valuable insights offered by these books

    - Holistic Approach: These books collectively promote a holistic approach to architecture, considering the physical aspects and the cosmic and energy-related dimensions.    - Applicability in Modern Times: Emphasis on the relevance and application of Vastu principles in contemporary, rapidly advancing lifestyles.    - Illustrative Content: Including illustrations and practical examples enhances accessibility, making these complex concepts understandable to a broader audience.    - Interdisciplinary Connections: Acknowledges the interdisciplinary nature of Vastu, connecting it with astrology, science, and ecological principles    - Cultural Preservation: Highlights the importance of preserving cultural and architectural traditions while adapting them to current needs.    - Sustainability: Emphasizes eco-friendly and sustainable practices, aligning with the global need for responsible construction.    - Practical Remedies: Recognizes the challenges of perfect Vastu compliance in urban settings and provides insights into remedial measures    - Unity of Science and Spirituality: Many books emphasize the unity of science and spirituality, showcasing Vastu as a blend of ancient wisdom and modern scientific principles.   These books offer a rich tapestry of insights into Vastu Shastra, providing practical guidance for architectural design and profound philosophical perspectives on harmonizing human spaces with cosmic energies.  

Strengths and weaknesses of the book 

 

1. Sthapatya Veda by Dr. V. Ganpati:

   - Strengths:      - Comprehensive redefinition and reinterpretation of Vastu Shastra.      - Emphasis on the universal applicability of principles for life-supporting buildings.      - Scholarly interpretation supported by practical demonstrations.      - Integration of aesthetic advanced treatments based on Vastu principles.    - Weaknesses:      - It may be challenging for beginners due to its in-depth scholarly content.

2. Vastu Architecture by Michael Bordon:

   - Strengths:      - Clear exposition on secular Vastu building design.      - Accessibility through fully illustrated content and straightforward language.      - Focus on creating structures in harmony with earth and cosmic energies.      - Suitable for a general audience without requiring architectural background.    - Weaknesses:      - Potential need for depth for readers seeking more advanced knowledge.

3. Vastu Purusha Mandalam by Dr. V. Ganpati:

   - Strengths:      - Authored work on the science of proportions and image-making.      - Illustrations and visual aids enhance understanding.      - Profound insights into Vastu Purusha Mandala and its 45 devtas.      - Published by the Government of Tamil Nadu, lending credibility.    - Weaknesses:      - Limited availability and accessibility to a broader audience.

4. Vastu Science for 21st Century by B. B. Puri:

   - Strengths:      - Highlights Vastu science principles for modern architecture.      - Emphasis on the continued relevance of Vastu in contemporary life.      - Comprehensive solution-oriented approach for Vastu-based planning.      - Addresses the ecological and sustainability aspects of Vastu.    - Weaknesses:      - More detailed practical examples for implementation may be needed.

5. Secrets of Vastushastra by N. H. Sahasrabudhe:

   - Strengths:      - Vastushastra is defined as a science of a higher dimension.      - Practical observations and research-based insights.      - Effective manipulation of cosmic energy for betterment.      - Focus on creating harmony through understanding cosmic forces.    - Weaknesses:      - Lack of widespread availability and recognition.

6. Architecture of Manasara by Prasanna Kumar Acharya:

   - Strengths:      - Manasara is regarded as a standard and complete treatise.      - Detailed sculptural descriptions from Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions.      - Emphasis on sustainable, eco-friendly creations.      - High relevance to contemporary global needs.    - Weaknesses:      - Maybe more specialized and less accessible for general readers.

7. Remedial Vastu Shastra:

   - Strengths:      - Recognition of cosmic energies exhibited by Vastu Shastra.      - Emphasis on Vastu as a promise to heaven and prosperity.      - Acknowledgment of challenges in urban settings and remedial measures.      - Practical insights for individuals unable to achieve perfect Vastu compliance.    - Weaknesses:      - May not delve deeply into the philosophical underpinnings of Vastu.

8. Vastu: Astrology and Architecture:

   - Strengths:      - Views Vastu as a significant aspect of astrology, bridging two ancient sciences.      - Discusses the relevance of Vastu in modern times.      - Outcome of a symposium aiming to revive the lost glory of Vastu.      - Demonstrates interdisciplinary connections.    - Weaknesses:      - Practical application guidance may need to be provided for readers.   Each book brings unique strengths to the exploration of Vastu Shastra, catering to different levels of expertise and interests. While some excel in scholarly interpretations, others prioritize accessibility and practical applications. Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of each allows readers to choose books aligning with their preferences and depth of engagement with Vastu principles. Read Also:- Unveiling the Masters: Top 10 Vastu Shastra Experts in India

There are potential benefits to studying Vastu Shastra through books.

 

1. Holistic Living:

   - Understanding Vastu Shastra through books promotes holistic living by integrating architectural principles with cosmic energies.    - Provides insights into creating living spaces that harmonize physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

2. Improved Health and Well-being:

   - Incorporating Vastu principles in design may positively impact health by aligning structures with natural energies.    - Proper orientation and placement of rooms can enhance air and light circulation, contributing to a healthier living environment.

3. Enhanced Energy Flow:

   - Knowledge gained from Vastu books helps optimize the flow of positive energy (Prana) within living spaces.    - Aligning structures with cardinal directions and utilizing specific design elements can facilitate a more harmonious energy flow.

4. Balanced Relationships:

   - Vastu emphasizes the impact of space on human interactions.    - Studying Vastu through books may provide insights into creating spaces that foster harmony, understanding, and positive family relationships.

5. Financial Prosperity:

   - Proper application of Vastu principles, as learned from books, is believed to attract positive cosmic energies that can contribute to financial prosperity.    - Aligning workplaces and homes with Vastu may positively influence career and financial success.

6. Cultural Preservation:

   - Delving into Vastu Shastra through books helps preserve and understand ancient cultural and architectural traditions.    - Connecting with these traditions contributes to cultural richness and heritage preservation.

7. Architectural Aesthetics:

   - Vastu knowledge enhances architectural aesthetics by providing proportion, balance, and design guidelines.    - Incorporating Vastu principles can result in aesthetically pleasing and culturally significant structures.

8. Eco-friendly Construction:

   - Vastu books often highlight the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices.    - Studying these principles encourages environmentally conscious design choices.

9. Psychological Well-being:

   - Vastu principles address the psychological impact of architectural design on individuals.    - Properly designed spaces can contribute to positive mental and psychological well-being.

10. Increased Awareness of Space:

    - Learning Vastu through books increases awareness of the significance of space and its influence on daily life.     - Individuals become more mindful of their surroundings and how it impacts their experiences.

11. Adaptation to Modern Lifestyles:

    - Some Vastu books, like those focusing on the 21st century, provide insights into adapting ancient principles to modern lifestyles.     - This adaptation allows individuals to apply Vastu in contemporary urban settings.

12. Spiritual Connection:

    - Vastu Shastra often intertwines with spiritual beliefs.     - Studying Vastu through books can deepen one's spiritual connection by aligning living spaces with cosmic energies and higher principles.  

Wrapping up

 Studying Vastu Shastra through books offers a holistic approach to living, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The potential benefits range from improved health and relationships to cultural preservation and ecological consciousness, making it a valuable field of knowledge for those seeking harmony and prosperity.