vaastu

Vaastu, or Vaastu Shastra, is an ancient Indian system of architecture and spatial design that seeks to harmonize buildings with natural forces and cosmic energy. The term comes from Sanskrit, with vastu meaning dwelling or building and shastra meaning doctrine or science. Traditionally, Vaastu Shastra covers architecture, city planning, interior layout, and the null point between structure and environment.

Core concepts include the pancha mahabhutas, the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and space, and their directional associations. Central to Vaastu is the vastu purusha mandala, a grid or cosmic diagram used to orient and allocate space within a structure. Proper alignment with cardinal directions and balanced elemental influences are considered essential for harmony, health, and prosperity.

Practical guidelines address the placement of rooms and features. Common recommendations include locating the main entrance to auspicious directions, placing water elements in the northeast, the kitchen in the southeast, and bedrooms in the southwest. The northeast is often favored for prayer or study areas, while toilets and storerooms are advised to be situated in less favorable zones. The Brahmasthan, the building’s central area, is typically kept open to allow free energy flow.

Modern relevance varies: Vaastu is frequently invoked in residential and commercial design in India and among the Indian diaspora, sometimes alongside feng shui. Critics note a lack of empirical evidence for its claims and view many guidelines as symbolic or traditional rather than scientific.