Shilpa Chintamani Part 1

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Shilpa Chintamani Part 1" by Mansukhlal Bhudharmal Mistri, based on the provided Gujarati text:

Overview:

"Shilpa Chintamani Part 1" (શિલ્પ ચિંતામણિ ભાગ-૧) is a foundational text in Jain architectural and artistic traditions, authored by Mansukhlal Bhudharmal Mistri and published by the author from Dhinoj. This book is dedicated to the principles and practices of Shilpa Shastra (the science of arts and crafts), particularly as it pertains to the construction of homes, temples, and other structures. It draws upon various ancient texts and modern insights to provide guidance for artisans and aspiring architects.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured into several chapters, each delving into specific aspects of Shilpa Shastra. The primary focus is on creating harmonious, auspicious, and functional living and religious spaces.

Chapter Breakdown and Key Concepts:

• Chapter 1: Foundation and Principles

  • Praise of Knowledge: Begins with invocations to Lord Ganesha, Swami Vishwakarma, and Goddess Saraswati, highlighting the importance of divine blessings and scholarly pursuit.
  • Origin of Shilpa Shastra: Traces the origin of Shilpa Shastra and other Vedas to the divine realms, emphasizing its ancient and sacred roots.
  • Qualities of an Architect (Sutradhar): Outlines the essential characteristics of an architect, including knowledge of scriptures, skill, intelligence, and freedom from greed.
  • Initiation and Entry into a House: Details auspicious timings for starting construction and entering a new dwelling, considering months, lunar phases, and auspicious omens.
  • Influence of Months and Stars: Discusses the auspiciousness and inauspiciousness associated with different months for construction and the astrological significance of celestial bodies.
  • The Serpent Chakra (Nag Chakra): Explains the concept of the "Nag Chakra" in relation to the sun's position and its impact on choosing the direction for excavation (foundation digging). It emphasizes avoiding digging in certain directions based on the serpent's perceived position to prevent harm.
  • Foundation Digging and Stones: Covers the depth of foundation digging and the placement and types of stones to be used.
  • Vastu Puja: Explains the rituals of Vastu Puja, which are performed at various stages of construction, from land preparation to the final occupancy.
  • Measurements and Tools (Sutras): Introduces different types of measuring tools and their applications, emphasizing accuracy in construction.
  • Land Examination: Describes methods for testing the suitability of land for construction, including examining its smell, taste, and the presence of specific natural elements.
  • The "Gaj" (Measuring Unit): Details the various units of measurement derived from the "Gaj," starting from minute particles to larger distances, crucial for precise architectural work.
  • Shadow Measurement: Discusses the use of shadows for determining directions and measurements.
  • Names of Angulas (Fingers/Thumb): Lists and explains the different finger-based units of measurement used in traditional Indian architecture.

• Chapter 2: Ay (Income/Prosperity) and its Calculation

  • Understanding "Ay": Introduces the concept of "Ay" (often translated as income or prosperity) as a vital calculation in architecture, determining the auspiciousness of a building's dimensions.
  • Calculating Ay: Provides formulas and tables for calculating different types of "Ay" (Dhvaj, Dhumra, Simha, Shvan, Vrishabh, Khar, Gaj, Dhvanksha) based on the building's length and width.
  • Auspicious and Inauspicious "Ay": Explains which "Ay" types are considered beneficial for different types of structures (temples, palaces, general homes) and the potential negative consequences of using inauspicious ones.
  • The "Roop" of Ay: Describes the symbolic representations of each "Ay" type, often personified with animal or human forms, and their directional orientations.
  • Human "Ay" Calculation: Details how to calculate "Ay" based on the owner's name and the building's dimensions, linking it to well-being and longevity.
  • Nakshatra (Constellations) and Mul Rashi: Explains methods for determining the building's Nakshatra and Mul Rashi based on its dimensions, linking these to astrological influences.
  • Methods for Calculating Nakshatras: Offers various simplified methods for calculating Nakshatras, useful for practical application.
  • Rashi Shadashtak (Six-Eight Relationship of Zodiac Signs): Discusses the compatibility between the owner's Rashi and the building's Rashi, highlighting auspicious and inauspicious combinations.
  • Vya (Expenditure): Introduces the concept of "Vya" as a complementary calculation to "Ay," affecting the overall prosperity of the dwelling.
  • Calculating Vya: Provides methods for calculating "Vya" and its relation to "Ay."
  • House Owner's Rashi and Nakshatra: Explains how to determine the owner's auspicious Nakshatra and Rashi for building and residing.
  • House's Rashi: Discusses how the building itself can be associated with a specific Rashi.
  • Nakshatra's Energy (Nadi): Introduces the concept of Nakshatra Nadi and its significance in compatibility.
  • Friendship and Enmity of Rashi: Elaborates on the astrological relationships between Rashi and Nakshatra, crucial for harmonious living.

• Chapter 3: Vastu and its Deities

  • Origin of Vastu Purusha: Narrates the myth of Vastu Purusha's creation and his significance in architecture.
  • Understanding Vastu: Explains the purpose and importance of Vastu Purusha in every construction.
  • Vastu Puja Grid: Details the layout of the Vastu grid and the placement of various deities within it.
  • Number of Padas for Vastu Puja: Specifies the number of "padas" (divisions) for Vastu Puja based on the type of structure (temples, houses, wells, etc.).
  • Directional Deities of Vastu: Identifies the presiding deities for each direction within the Vastu grid.
  • Materials for Vastu: Mentions acceptable materials for constructing the Vastu Purusha effigy.
  • Worship of Vastu Purusha: Describes the ritualistic worship of Vastu Purusha.
  • Padas for Vastu: Explains the arrangement of deities in different "pada" divisions of the Vastu grid, for various structures like temples (64 padas), houses (81 padas), and for renovation (49 padas).
  • Construction of Kunds (Sacred Ponds): Provides guidelines for building sacred ponds and related structures.
  • Mandap Measurements: Details the dimensions for mandaps (pavilions) used in rituals.
  • Idol Preparation: Mentions the importance of clothing and adornments for deities, and the role of the sculptor.
  • Vastu Installation: Discusses the proper procedure for installing Vastu.
  • Vastu Puja Results: Highlights the auspicious outcomes of performing Vastu Puja correctly.

• Chapter 4: Proportions of Rooms and Structures

  • Main Room Proportions: Discusses the ideal dimensions and proportions for various rooms within a house.
  • Door Heights and Norms: Explains the standards and variations for door heights.
  • Door Branch and Frame Proportions: Details the measurements for door frames and decorative elements.
  • Threshold (Ukhara) and Entrances: Covers the proportions and significance of the threshold.
  • Stone Doors: Discusses the use and detailing of stone doors.
  • House Height Proportions: Provides guidelines for determining the overall height of a building.
  • Column (Khambha) and Beam (Patda) Proportions: Details the measurements for structural elements.
  • Archways: Explains the principles of constructing arches.
  • Decorative Elements: Covers the proportions of ornamental features like Kumbhi (pinnacles) and brackets.
  • Placement of Fixtures: Discusses the auspicious placement of lamps and other fixtures.
  • Base and Plinth Measurements: Explains the calculations for the plinth and base of structures.
  • Royal Residences: Details the specific proportions for royal residences.
  • General House Proportions: Provides guidelines for houses of different social strata (pradhans, four varnas).
  • Padabhaga (Division of Space): Explains the concept of dividing space based on "padas."
  • House Outline (Rekha): Discusses the principles of drawing the outline of a house.

• Chapter 5: Defect-Free Vastu and Troubleshooting

  • Vastu Defects: Identifies various potential defects in Vastu, including those related to trees (Peepal, milk-yielding trees), door placements, structural issues, and the placement of rooms.
  • Doshas Related to Trees: Elaborates on the negative impacts of certain trees near a house and remedies.
  • Door Placement Errors: Discusses the problems arising from incorrect door placement and solutions.
  • Height and Level Issues: Addresses defects related to uneven floor levels and floor heights.
  • Defects in Jali (Latticework) and Taaka (Water Tanks): Explains the consequences of improper design or placement of these elements.
  • Defects in Shreni (Steps/Levels): Discusses issues related to architectural levels and staircases.
  • Garba Vedha (Penetration of Sanctum): Explains the concept of Garba Vedha and its avoidance.
  • Room and Verandah Measurements: Provides guidance on the proportions of various living spaces.
  • Courtyards and Passages: Discusses the design and placement of courtyards and passages.
  • Defects in Water Channels (Chhidra): Addresses issues related to water flow and drainage.
  • Building Sightlines (Drishti): Explains the importance of sightlines in architecture.
  • Prohibition of Certain Images: Discourages the depiction of harmful birds or unsettling imagery within a dwelling.
  • Remedies for Dilapidated Structures: Offers advice on how to handle and repair old or damaged buildings without causing further negative effects.
  • Defects in Corner Penetrations (Vedha): Discusses the issues related to intersecting lines and their impact on Vastu.
  • Rahukala Door Placement: Advises on specific precautions when placing doors during Rahukala.
  • Protecting Doorways: Emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of door frames and lintels.
  • Consequences for Artisans: Highlights the negative repercussions for artisans who introduce defects.
  • Defects in Nalahina (Waterless) Houses: Discusses the problems associated with houses lacking proper water access or drainage.
  • School Measurements: Provides specific guidelines for school layouts.
  • Tree Planting: Recommends auspicious trees to plant around residences for kings and ordinary people.
  • Dwelling Growth: Advises on methods to expand or modify existing structures.
  • Adhishthita (Foundation): Discusses the principles related to the foundation's stability and placement.
  • Placement of Jali: Advises against placing latticework directly above doors.
  • Door Placement in Prasadas and Houses: Offers further rules for door placement in various buildings.
  • Nagadanta in Schools: Explains the placement of a specific architectural element called "Nagadanta."
  • Shaakha Thickness and Kumbhi Measurement: Details the proportions of decorative elements on doorframes.
  • Garba Door: Discusses the placement and significance of the "Garba Door."

• Chapter 6: Materials and Placement of Rooms

  • Types of Wood: Recommends suitable types of wood for construction and warns against using certain types.
  • Placement of Water Sources and Rooms: Specifies the auspicious locations for water storage (paniyar), temples, kitchens, schools, women's quarters, storerooms, treasuries, medicine rooms, and fire-related areas.
  • General Principles: Covers various aspects of house design, including the placement of doors, use of stone, roof styles, and the auspiciousness of different configurations.
  • Disposition of Structures: Advises on the placement of buildings relative to each other and the surrounding environment.

• Chapter 7: Longevity and Destruction of Buildings

  • Ay and Vya: Reintroduces the concepts of Ay and Vya and their connection to the lifespan of a building.
  • Predicting Building Lifespan: Provides methods to calculate the estimated longevity of a structure based on its dimensions.
  • Tattva (Elements) and their Impact: Explains how the dominance of Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether elements influences the building's fate.
  • Causes of Building Destruction: Details how specific elemental imbalances can lead to the building's demise.
  • Architectural Calculations: Demonstrates how to perform calculations for building longevity and predict potential destructive influences.

• Chapter 8: Purification of Land and Treasures

  • Land Purification: Discusses methods for purifying the land before construction.
  • Shalya (Subterranean Obstructions): Explains how to identify and remove "shalya" (obstructive elements) from the ground, often through divination or astrological calculations based on names and constellations.
  • Finding Hidden Treasures (Nidhi): Offers techniques for locating hidden treasures buried underground, often linked to astrological alignments and specific rituals.
  • Muhurta for Water Reservoirs: Provides auspicious timings for starting the construction of wells, ponds, and reservoirs.
  • Kupa Chakra (Well Circle): Details a specific astrological diagram for well construction.
  • Causes of Water Depletion: Discusses astrological reasons for wells drying up.
  • Planetary Influences on Wells: Explains how planetary positions affect the construction and water supply of wells.

• Chapter 9: Idol Proportions and Installation

  • Measurement of Deities: Provides precise guidelines for the proportions of idols for various deities like Lakshmi-Narayana, Sheshshayi, and Jain Tirthankaras.
  • Standing and Sitting Idol Proportions: Details the measurements for both standing and seated idols.
  • Measurements of Lingas and Jaladhari: Explains the dimensions for Shiva lingas and their base structures.
  • Vehicle Placement (Vahan): Discusses the auspicious placement of divine vehicles.
  • Pratibhashana (Pedestals) and Idols: Details the proportions and placement of pedestals and idols.
  • Measurements for Brahma, Vishnu, and Parvati: Specifies the dimensions for these deities.
  • Prasad Measurement based on Idol Height: Relates the height of the idol to the size of the temple's main sanctum.
  • Dwara Measurement for Idol Proportion: Connects door measurements to idol proportions.
  • Simhasana (Thrones): Provides guidelines for the dimensions of thrones.
  • Jain Idol Making: Offers specific instructions on creating Jain idols.
  • Dhvajadanda (Flagpole) Proportions: Details the measurements for flagpoles.
  • Dhvajadanda Thickness: Specifies the thickness of flagpoles.

• Chapter 10: Geometric Calculations

  • Volume and Area Calculations: Introduces basic geometric calculations for volumes (Ghanfut), lengths (Running Foot), areas (Square Foot), polygons (Panchkon, Shathkon, Ashtashtra), and circles (Vritta).
  • Practical Applications: Demonstrates how these calculations are applied in architectural design and construction.

• Chapter 11: Cement and Construction Materials

  • Cement: Discusses the composition, types, and testing of cement. It highlights the advantages of artificial cement made with controlled proportions.
  • Cement Brands: Lists reputable cement brands available in India at the time of writing.
  • Use of Cement: Explains how cement can be used as a substitute for lime and its benefits in certain applications.
  • Sand Ratio with Cement: Advises on the appropriate ratio of sand to cement for different construction tasks.
  • Excavation: Provides estimates for manual labor in excavation.
  • Concrete Foundations: Details the process of creating concrete foundations using various aggregates like stone chips and brick pieces.
  • Lime Concrete Layers: Explains the layering process for lime concrete.
  • Strength of Cement Concrete: Presents data on the load-bearing capacity of concrete mixes with different cement-to-aggregate ratios.
  • Colored Cement Floors: Offers instructions for creating colored cement floors using pigments.
  • Water-Resistant Cement: Describes a method for creating cement that is resistant to water.
  • Cement for Glasswork: Mentions cement usage in glass-related applications.
  • Useful Cement Applications: Highlights cement's utility in various construction works.
  • Artificial Marble: Provides a method for creating artificial marble.
  • Coloring Marble: Explains techniques for coloring marble.

• Chapter 12: Varnishes and Finishes

  • Varnishes: Discusses different types of varnishes, their preparation, and application for wood finishing.
  • French Polish: Details the process of French polishing for furniture.
  • Furniture Polish: Offers recipes for furniture polish.
  • Durable Polish: Provides a recipe for a long-lasting polish.
  • Ceiling Joint Filling: Explains how to fill ceiling joints.
  • Marble Polish: Describes methods for polishing marble.
  • Marble Carving: Briefly touches upon techniques for carving marble.
  • Glass Cutting: Mentions methods for cutting glass.
  • Engraving on Metal: Explains the process of engraving letters on copper, brass, and steel.
  • Marble Inlay Materials: Lists the materials used for inlay work in marble.
  • Turpentine Oil: Explains the extraction and purification of turpentine oil.
  • Laphi (Putty): Provides recipes for making putty for filling wood.
  • Colors: Discusses various types of colors, including water-based and oil-based paints, their preparation, and application.

• Chapter 13: Auspicious Times and Calculations

  • Tithis (Lunar Days): Explains the classification of Tithis into Nanda, Bhadra, Jaya, Rikta, and Purna and their auspiciousness for different castes.
  • Siddhi Yoga: Identifies specific combinations of days, Tithis, and Nakshatras that form auspicious "Siddhi Yoga."
  • Yamaghanta Yoga: Describes the formation of the inauspicious "Yamaghanta Yoga" and its negative implications.
  • Nadi Calculation: Explains the concept of Nakshatra Nadi and its importance in determining compatibility for marriage and construction.
  • Tara Calculation: Details how to calculate the "Tara" (star) based on the owner's and building's Nakshatras, and its auspiciousness.
  • Rashi Calculation from Nakshatra: Provides a table to determine the Rashi from a given Nakshatra.
  • Verification of Nakshatras: Offers examples and methods for simplifying Nakshatra calculations.
  • Calculating Vya: Explains how to calculate "Vya" (expenditure) based on Nakshatra and its relation to Ay.
  • Calculating Tara: Details how to determine Tara based on the owner's name and Nakshatra.
  • Calculating Rashi from Name: Provides a table to determine Rashi based on the initial letter of a person's name.
  • Calculating Ayushka (Durability): Explains methods to calculate the predicted lifespan of a building.
  • Grah Maitri (Planetary Relationships): Outlines the relationships (friend, enemy, neutral) between planets and zodiac signs.
  • Varna of Rashi: Discusses the caste (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) associated with each zodiac sign and its implications for house selection.
  • Nakshatra Yoni (Animal Symbolism): Lists the animal symbols associated with each Nakshatra and their potential incompatibilities.
  • Nakshatra Vair (Enmities): Explains the inherent enmities between certain Nakshatras and advises against their use in critical junctures.
  • Adhipati (Lord) of the House: Describes how to determine the "lord" of the house based on its dimensions and proportions, and the implications of different lords.
  • Nakshatra Nadi Calculation: Offers a method to determine the Nakshatra Nadi and its significance for compatibility.
  • Lagna, Tithi, and Varna Calculation: Explains how to determine the auspiciousness of Lagna (ascendant), Tithi, and Varna for construction.

• Chapter 14: Auspicious Timings for Deities and Constructions

  • Dev Pratishtha Muhurta: Provides auspicious timings for idol installation ceremonies.
  • Lagna Calculation: Details methods for calculating auspicious Lagna.
  • Ishta Ghadi Calculation: Explains how to find specific auspicious moments within a day.
  • Calculating Chandra: Describes methods for calculating the position of the Moon.
  • Day and Night Ghadi (Time Periods): Explains the division of day and night into Ghadi and Hora.
  • Chandra Bala (Moon Strength): Discusses the strength and influence of the Moon.
  • Tara Bala (Star Strength): Explains the strength and influence of Nakshatras.
  • Ghat Chakra: Discusses a specific astrological diagram related to time.
  • Chandra Vas (Moon's Location): Explains how to determine the Moon's positional influence.
  • Shubha Ashubha Prashna (Auspicious/Inauspicious Questions): Offers methods for divining auspiciousness through questions and answers.
  • Shubha Ashubha Shukun (Omens): Discusses good and bad omens.
  • Apashakun Parihar (Remedies for Bad Omens): Provides remedies for mitigating the effects of bad omens.
  • Swaroday (Breathology): Explains the principles of Swaroday, the science of breath cycles, and its application in predicting outcomes and choosing auspicious times.

• Chapter 15: Modern Construction Techniques

  • Modern Construction Information: Briefly touches upon modern construction practices.
  • Site Selection: Advises on choosing elevated and well-drained land, and avoiding certain soil types.
  • Directional Preferences: Recommends the best directions for placement of rooms (north and east being preferable).
  • Ventilation and Light: Emphasizes the importance of adequate natural light and ventilation.
  • Foundation Design: Discusses foundation depth and width based on soil type, and modern techniques like using concrete pillars.
  • Brickwork: Provides guidance on selecting good quality bricks and their placement.
  • Wall Thickness: Outlines recommended wall thicknesses based on building height and local building codes (referencing Mumbai Municipality rules).
  • Kaman (Arches) and their Construction: Details the process of building arches.
  • Pointing: Explains different styles of pointing for brickwork.
  • Plastering: Discusses the application of lime and cement plaster.
  • Flooring: Covers various flooring techniques, including stone tiles and cement flooring.
  • Jack Arch Flooring: Mentions a specific type of flooring.
  • Load Bearing Capacity: Includes a table showing the load-bearing capacity of different floor constructions.
  • Staircase Design: Provides rules for staircase dimensions and placement.
  • Window and Door Placement: Advises on the size and placement of windows and doors according to regulations.
  • Chinese Chips: Discusses the use of imported decorative chips.
  • Tiles: Mentions the use of tiles.
  • Roofing: Covers different types of roofing materials and their slopes, including tiles and metal sheets.
  • Wood Measurement: Explains methods for measuring timber and provides a chart for its volume.
  • Weight of Building Materials: Includes a table showing the weight per cubic foot of various construction materials.
  • Galvanized Iron Sheets: Discusses the specifications and usage of galvanized iron sheets.
  • Glass: Describes different types of glass used in construction and their manufacturing process.

Publisher and Renovation:

The book is published by Mansukhlal Bhudharmal Mistri from Dhinoj. The text also mentions the renovation and scanning of old books by the Shree Ashapurna Parshwanath Jain Gyan Bhandar in Ahmedabad, contributing to the preservation of knowledge.

Dedication:

The book is dedicated to the author's late uncle, Laljibhai Vanarshi, who was a respected scholar and teacher of Shilpa Shastra, and from whom the author received great inspiration and guidance.

Overall Significance:

"Shilpa Chintamani Part 1" serves as a comprehensive guide to the art and science of traditional Indian architecture, deeply rooted in Jain philosophy and practices. It aims to equip artisans with the knowledge to create buildings that are not only structurally sound but also spiritually and aesthetically fulfilling, contributing to the well-being and prosperity of the inhabitants. The book's detailed explanations and practical advice make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in this ancient and intricate field.