Unlocking the Secrets of Vāstu: Harmonizing Spaces in the 21st Century

Words by Divya Goyal

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This map is a digitally rendered topographic representations of South Asia (printed in 2D). In order to create these maps, Digital Elevation Data (DEM) is obtained from NASA's Shuttle Radar Topography Mission and is processed and digitally rendered to create a highly detailed elevation profile of South Asia and printed on a flat surface. Two versions of the map are available, each with different hypsometric color overlays that highlight the difference in elevation, creating beautiful artworks. (Available in Print)

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Unlocking The Secrets Of Vāstu: Harmonizing Spaces In The 21st Century

In an era characterized by fast-paced and ever-evolving real estate markets, Vāstu Sāstra, or Vāstu, is currently witnessing a remarkable resurgence. Vāstu, an ancient Indian architectural tradition, focuses on creating harmonious spaces by considering factors like building orientation, room placement, and elemental arrangement. It aims to enhance the well-being and prosperity of occupants by aligning structures with cosmic and earthly energies, fostering physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

This ancient and distinctive fusion of architectural and design philosophy has played an influential role in property construction globally. Interestingly, the new Parliament building in India boldly embraced the core principles of Vāstu, with its triangular shape mirroring the fierce 'Agni' Tatv, an emblem of unbridled positive energy.

References to Vāstu can be traced backto the Vedic period, with its roots in the Vedas - particularly the Atharvaveda and the Rigveda. The word "Vāstu" itself is derived from the Sanskrit word "Vas," which means to dwell or live.

Angkor Wat in Cambodia was designed according to Vaastu standards

In his book, "The Amazing Science of Vaastu," A.K. Hari meticulously elucidates that in India, Vāstu had been largely obscured from contemporary memory until the latter part of the 20th century. However, it was during this period that Vāstu experienced a renaissance of interest, catalyzed by the industrialists in South India. Faced with substantial business losses, these entrepreneurs turned to Vāstu practitioners in search of solutions. Hari's words encapsulate the essence of this transformation, stating, "The spectacular about-turn in their fortune as a result of incorporating modifications on the lines of Vāstu norms and their open confession of the face paved the way for the rebirth of Vāstu."