Vastu Purusha Mandala, Directions, and Site Selection
What this domain tests
This domain tests the mandala grid, the eight directions and their rulers, and the field checks used before buying or building on a plot. You must be able to apply these ideas to a realistic site.
Core rules and concepts
- The Vastu Purusha Mandala is a square grid with Brahma at the centre and 45 devatas arranged around the centre. Classical texts describe many mandalas, including Manduka, Paramashayika, Asana, Sthandila, and Mandala.
- An 81-pada grid (9 x 9) is used for temples; a 64-pada grid (8 x 8) is common for houses. Brahma occupies the central padas, which should remain open and light.
- Dikpalas: north Kubera, northeast Ishana, east Indra, southeast Agni, south Yama, southwest Nirriti, west Varuna, northwest Vayu.
- Site selection uses soil tests, water tests, shape, slope, surroundings, and ayadi. A square plot is best; a rectangle up to about 1:2 is acceptable. The northeast should be lower and the southwest higher. Water should flow toward the north, east, or northeast.
Worked example
A plot measures 30 ft by 45 ft with a road on the north and a slope down toward the northeast. The ratio is 1:1.5, so the shape is acceptable. The north road supports a north entrance, and the northeast low level is favourable, provided the northeast is not cut or occupied by a toilet. Keep the southwest heavy and closed. The reasoning is that Kubera rules the north and Ishana the northeast, while the southwest is the earth zone.
Traps that cost marks
A common error is saying the northeast should be high; it should be low and light. Do not call the south Kubera; the south is Yama. Do not confuse the 64-pada and 81-pada grids. Do not ignore the road direction when judging an entrance.