The Way of The Silpis or Hindu Approach to Art and Science (An Old and Rare Book)

It is a research. For truth in the debris of Indian Culture, in fields that have been ploughed by many and, often discarded as worthless. It is a search among superstitions, sorcery rites, blind faith, discredited texts, disjointed statements and uncompromising' prejudices.

It reveals the typical Hindu approach to Art. Science and Architecture; it shows how the Hindu solved abstruse problems, contrary to general impression, with a practical mind and business-Iike manner.

It indicates how they made Calendars, laid out towns, planned houses, surveyed the land, selected usable measurements, fixed the relation between the Length, Breadth, and Height, and how they hid mathematical truths in sacrificial altars.

It proves the indigenous and independent origin of the Hindu culture. India's link with the long forgotten culture of the Indus valley, not based on pious wishes and preconceived notions, but on the discovery of common architectural formulae. Proportions, measuring rods, and continuous traditions.

It gives useful lessons in planning towns without the necessity for relaying at every industrial or commercial development, and how the houses should be sited and designed to suit the climatic conditions, to meet the needs of the people nay even Lo satisfy their prejudices, time- honoured traditions, and social customs. And all in language simple and mathematics elemen try enough for the Laymen.

A benign Government, forced a period of Medical leave on me. Late Sir C. Y. Chintamani placed a copy of 'Manasara Silpa-Sastra' at my disposal. Certain discrepancies in the book made me to investigate. Satisfactory solutions encouraged me to further investigation and research. This book is the result of my investigation lasting over a period of several years, through a period of busy professional life as an Engineer. My investigation and research are not complete. It is hoped that others may take up the subject and. present a true appreciation of Indian culture.

My thanks are due to the Archaeological Department, Government of India, and. the Munic ip al Board, Allahabad for giving me permission to insert .some of their Pictures in the book.