Unfolding the Veil of Mystery: VAASTU (The Art of Science of Living)

Vaastu Shaastra is the art and science of living a happy and contented long life. In the modern day world of high speed technology, many diseases are arising out of faulty lifestyles. Classical principal of Vaastu Shaastra describe the ancient way of living which need modifications in the present day context.

The present book Unfolding the Veil of Mystery - Vaastu: The Art & Science of Living is an intelligent amalgamation of the ancient practice of Vaastu living and modern technologies of house building and architecture. It offers an introduction to Vaastu Shaastra, systematizing and standardizing its techniques and methodologies.

The book has been divided into three sections. The first section has been devoted to the understanding of the key concepts, principles and forces of Vaastu that exert an influence on any given space. The second section of the book reveals how to create heaven on earth; right in your home. It shows how we can achieve internal peace by first achieving external peace in the house. The third section is related to the day-to-day use of Vaastu. One chapter has been devoted to Vaastu of workplace which, in many aspects, is different from residential Vaastu.

This book has been written according to the established principles of Vedic Astrology; an inevitable part of Vaastu Shaastra. The effect of the nine planets is considered in Astrology while mainly the effect of planet earth is taken in Vaastu. Astrology depends on dashas (Planetary Periods) while Vaastu depends on dishas (Directions), Jyotish assumes the existence of Kaal Purush (Time Personified) while Vaastu assumes the existence of Vaastu Purush (Space Personified).

The present book incorporates current knowledge of building science to explain the ancient wisdom of Vaastu Shaastra only to bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern way of thinking. No attempt has been made to transgress into the other parallel systems known as Feng Shui and Pyramidology, which require totally separate study. The work is meant primarily for those who want to learn Vaastu from the very beginning and pursue it seriously in a scientific manner. The book will also serve as a stepping stone for those who intend to indulge in hitherto unexplored areas of Vaastu Shaastra like suitability of certain directions for certain activities, hidden meanings of Vaastu Purush; forty-five demi gods; ten dikpalas; three energies and Panchmahabhootas, predicting the fate of a house and its inhabitants through Vaastu kala, etc.

Ashwini Kumar; AMIE (Civil Engg.), BA, LL B., Prabhakar, DCE (Hons.), Certificate of Proficiency in Russian language (Hons.), is a triple graduate in Arts, Civil Engineering and Law. He is a member of the prestigious Institution of Engineers (India). He has studies Sanskrit and Religion as full-fledged academic subjects. Having more than 15 years of experience in the field of Building Science, he is presently working as a Civil Engineer in a Delhi-based corporation. He is equally engrossed in giving consultancy in Vaastu Shaastr and Feng Shui.

Ashwini Kumar, a Gold Medallist Jyotish Acharya from Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan, New Delhi started teaching Vaastu Shaastra, Feng Shui, Palmistry, Astrology (Mathematical, Predictive and Remedial), Gemology, Colour Therapy, Numerology, Mantras, etc in an organized way in July 2000 for the first time in Delhi. He teaches these sciences in co-relation with Psychology, Science and Spiritualism. He has established the Society for Study of Mystique Sciences with the help of other Mystique Sciences enthusiasts, where he is acting as the honorary chief guide and professor. The Society is conducting courses in the above-mentioned subjects and awards diplomas.

The author has regularly contributed to various magazines on Vaastu Shaastra and Palmistry. This is his first book on Vaastu Shaastra and is the outcome of the author's study, experimentation and teaching at different stages for more than 15 years.

Classical principles of vaastu shaastra describe the ancient way of living. Modem era of high speed technology has radically changed our lifestyles. Daily, some new products and services are being thrown before the prospective customers. However, everything comes with a price. Modem human being is paying this price in the form of tensions, anxieties and diseases such as erratic blood pressure, heart troubles, diabetes, respiratory problems, low immunity to diseases and many more; mainly arising out of faulty living style. In spite of most of our work done by machines, we don't have the precious time that we need to share with our family and with our intimate self. There are conflicting obligations at home and at work. The solution lies in an intelligent amalgamation of modem technology and ancient practice of vaastu living.

Vaastu shaastra is not only spending lavishly on painting the building with costly colours, choosing some new carpets and curtains, rearranging the furniture or just changing the face while sitting, working and sleeping. The design of any living or working space has mainly three aspects: utilitarian, aesthetical and mental. The designed vaastu must evoke a feeling of well-being and contentment in its user's mind apart from being useful and looking beautiful. The chosen proportions should enhance a positive response in the viewer. The designed product should create a visual as well as a psychological impact of great beauty and content. Instead of creating just fashionable designs, it should also nurture our mind, body and spirit. The resultant space must be practically useful, aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable to live and work in. It should not look like just a sterile place. Proper functioning of cosmic energy (prana) within the home ensures good health, wealth and all round happiness.

comes from the knowledge and practice of civil engineering, astrology, and vaastu shaastra for nearly fifteen years. My journey of Vaastu Shaastra started with two parallel fields - civil engineering and mystic sciences. My elder brother initiated me in the building science while my father taught the first lesson of Palmistry. The search for exact timing of events led to Jyotish Acharya course in Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan, New Delhi during 1995 summers. After becoming a gold medallist in the same course, something still seemed lacking. The effect of seven heavenly planets - Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn, along with two mathematical planets Rahu and Ketu - is taken in astrology but where is the effect of earth on which we reside?

Being a qualified civil engineer, I was deeply engrossed in the classical art and science ofliving ie Vaastu Shaastra. It opened a vast treasure before me. Regular study of religion and Sanskrit language as a subject up to graduation level put me in an advantageous position. Deep knowledge of Civil Engineering, Astrology, and Human psychology helped a lot in true interpretation of classical recommendations. The best advantage being the teaching of vaastu shaastra, feng shui, palmistry, astrology, gemology, numerology, colour therapy, and mantras on weekends to hundreds of students in Society for Study of Mystique Science (Regd.) at New Delhi.

My special attention was focused on finding out scientific reasons of vaastu shaastra's recommendations. There are ample proof of success with vaastu shaastra in the classes I teach as well as with my clients. Vaastu shaastra helps to sharpen awareness of our immediate environment, which is otherwise overlooked. The science of vaastu is complete in itself. Properly applied vaastu Shaastra reconnects humankind to the environment and to our true nature.

UNFOLDING THE VEIL OF MYSTERY, VAASTU: THE ART AND SCIENCE OF LIVING offers an introduction to vaastu shaastra, systematising and standardising its techniques and methodologies. This book is intended to introduce vaastu both to those who are new to home design and to others who may already be familiar with it. However, it is always advisable to consult a qualified vaastu practitioner. The whole book has been divided into twelve chapters. First four chapters have been designed for understanding the basic tools, principles and forces ofvaastu. Chapters 5 to 8 are devoted to the applied aspect of residential vaastu. Chapter 9 has been introduced for sketching an ideal working environment. Chapters 10 to 12 deal with interior decoration, trees and plants, therapeutics and remedies in details,

Section I of the book explains the key concepts and forces of vaastu shaastra that exert an influence on any given space. Traditional vaastu is expressed in terms of myths and symbols. These are the tools by which mind can comprehend various hidden forces. You won't be able to reap the full benefits of vaastu without a strong foundation. After brief introduction to the meaning, division and need of vaastu shaastra, its relation with human karmas is discussed in details. Vaastu living does not promise a dramatic overnight change. It goes hand in hand with one's own luck. Vaastu shaastra is an amalgamation of civil engineering, physics, geography, mathematics, architecture, science, human psychology, interior design, astrology, spirituality and many more.

Essential qualifications of a successful vaastu practitioner are taken mainly from Mayamatam. In modern days, an expert vaastu practitioner also needs sound knowledge of Sanskrit language for correct interpretation of classical texts of vaastu shaastra which are mostly available in Sanskrit. It is a deception to rely on an English version of a Hindi translation without having good grasp of Sanskrit in original. The skeleton of vaastu shaastra stands on the ten directions. Certain planets, directional lords, thermal and optical qualities, elements, shapes, gunas, weight and energies are allotted to all of these ten directions. These aspects have been discussed in details. Constant efforts have been made to clarify the underlying deep philosophy. The first chapter ends with the dreams of an ideal home. However, majority of homes don't conform to this model.

Earth is the primal vaastu while Sun is its heavenly roof. Earth and Sun - the parents of all the existence - have been discussed in details taking classical as well as modern aspect. Efforts have been made to unfold the myth of Vaastu Purush. Vaastu Purush is occupied by forty-five gods, which are actually the forty-five type of energy systems, the interpretation of which has long been forgotten. Modern scientists have identified some energies occupying any space which are discussed in the present work under the heading 'Vaastu Purush Mandala: Arena of Energies'. However, it is an active area of research. Square is the best shape for any plot or building. Its strong scientific base has been proved in chapter 2 under the heading' Square shape: The sign of economy and stability'.

Astrology is an integral part of vaastu shaastra. Essential concepts of astrology are given in details in chapter 3 which will enable the readers to understand vaastu in a better way. Time and space are omnipresent. Jyotish uses personified form of time (Kaal Purush) while vaastu uses personified form of space (Vaastu Purush).

Under chapter 4, five great elements, ten dikpalas and three gunas have been discussed in details. A deep study of these tools of vaastu is inevitable for proper understanding and further application of vaastu principles. Angular and linear measurements - along with necessary instruments - are discussed in details. 'Systems of Measurement' contains exclusive tables for conversion of measurements from one system to another for ready reference of readers. I have discussed compass and shanku and their use in a detailed manner. Whole of the future design of your building depends on accurate marking of cardinal North. Readers with non-technical background may find it somewhat difficult but it's not impossible. Readers are advised to pay some extra attention or seek some expert guidance to understand this important aspect.

Section II of the book teaches you how to create heaven on the earth, right in your home. Vaastu is not just aesthetics but is our inseparable connection and relationship with the nature. We need to find external peace before we can achieve internal peace. The basic principles of vaastu shaastra covered under Section I must be fully mastered before starting study of Section II: Applied Vaastu. Vaastu is not an Aladdin's lamp. It requires something more than just facing north during . the work or sleeping with keeping head in the south. It requires an honest and careful study of yourself and your surroundings. Everything in this world is interconnected and interrelated.

A square or rectangular plot can conveniently be divided in nine equal parts giving all the prime directions. These ten directions have been discussed in details in chapter 5 'Nav Pada Vaastu' which provides a wealth of knowledge for designing various aspects of any vaastu. Remedies are given for rectification of defects in any of these nine sectors. Readers are at liberty to choose any of these remedies suitable to their liking and temperament.

North India, including Delhi, is most vulnerable earthquake prone area. Care has been taken to discuss the classical as well as modern rules for making your residence an earthquake resistant structure in chapter 6 under the heading 'Earthquake Resistance of Buildings ', World is made up of diverse habitats, climates and societies. This is true with all the life forms and human activities in a house. Different activities need different design. All the necessary aspects of human residence are discussed with simple sketches in chapters 6,7 and 8. However, any space can always be arranged in many alternate ways. This section explains how to incorporate vaastu in the residence.

Section III of the book has been devoted to daily usage of vaastu. Vaastu of the workplace is somewhat different from residential vaastu. This aspect has been covered in brief in chapter 9. It requires a complete separate book for covering all the necessary aspects regarding commercial/ professional vaastu. A vast amount of information, gathered from standard classical texts, has been provided in the modem day context. Some untouched areas have been discussed in details. 'Aesthetics in Vaastu' discussed in details in chapter 10 will be very useful for day to day interior design and decoration. Trees and plants are very important from health, wealth, aesthetical, as well as remedial point of view and have been discussed under the same chapter.

Alternative therapies - sun rays, colour, water, food and sleep - have been introduced in chapter 11. These should be practiced under some expert guidance. Specialised remedies have been discussed in chapter 12 in order to acquaint the reader of such ready cures. These include remedies through numerology, yantras, and mantras. Golden rules of enjoying long and contented life have been discussed under the heading Vaastu Tantra: The Vaastu Friendly Living Style. Collected mainly from Atharvaveda, these rules spin the web of vaastu shaastra. Follow them and feel the outcome. Happiness in life depends not only on material possessions and environment but also on human relations and conduct.

Readers building new houses as well as residing in already constructed houses can equally take advantage of these remedies. One can find out which colour, number of the house or car, yantra, mantra or plant is going to successfully meet his / her interest(s). Greater understanding of these areas necessitates further study. Remedies are the medicines meant only for a diseased house. If there is no disease, no medicine is required. Whenever required, choose the proper medicine.

The present book deals solely with the principles of vaastu shaastra in tune with the necessities of modem technology. No attempt has been made to transgress into the other parallel system known as feng shui and pyramidology, which require completely separate study. This work is meant primarily for those who want to learn vaastu from the very beginning and pursue it seriously in a scientific manner. It will serve as a stepping stone for those who want to eventually go into specialised branches of vaastu shaastra. The present book is also aimed to help those who intend to indulge in hitherto unexplored areas of vaastu shaastra eg suitability of certain directions for certain activities, hidden meanings of forty-five types of energy systems, predicting fate of a house and its inhabitants through the art ofvaastu etc.

It needs a new style of writing of books for teaching vaastu shaastra to students of very high intellectual calibre like, architects, civil engineers, exterior and interior Soiesigners and decorators, builders, estate promoters, professors, doctors and vaastu lovers. The teacher ofvaastu shaastra classes knows what confusion lingers in the minds of students. Consequently, communication gap that generally exists between author and the readers can be bridged to a large extent.

We have ventured to establish a Society for Study of Mystique Sciences in Delhi which is now registered with the Govt. ofN.C.T. of Delhi. The society is conducting weekend diploma courses in Vaastu Shaastra, Feng Shui, Exterior and Interior Design, Palmistry, Mathematical; Predictive and Remedial Astrology, Gemology, Numerology, Colour Therapy, Lal Kitab, Mantras and Magneto Therapy in New Delhi. The day time classes are held on Saturdays or Sundays near Conn aught Place, New Delhi. The society awards diploma(s) Basta Samudrik Ratnakar; Vaastu Vishwakarma and Jyotisb Dhanwantri after successful completions of the course(s).

The society is acting as initiator of a radical method of teaching these mystic sciences in co-relation with physiognomy, human psychology, sanskrit, science, spirituality and engineering. Society is following the sacred tradition of distributing the long accumulated knowledge of these divine vidyas to the people who are worthy of receiving it. The members of SSMS (Regd.) in Delhi wish all readers a grand success in understanding the art and science of vaastu shaastra and in acquiring the expertise by themselves.

Most of the classical. texts were written in a male dominated society. In the modem day context 'son' should be understood as 'child'. Everywhere in this book, 'he' is equally applicable to male and female, unless specifically pointed out otherwise.

All kind of suggestions from the intelligent readers for the improvement of this book and science are most welcome with thanks. My efforts will be more than rewarded jfthis work fulfils its intended aims.