Shilpdipaka

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shilpdipaka" by Gangadhar, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shilpdipaka Author: Gangadhar Publisher: Mahadev Ramchandra Jagushte, Ahmedabad Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/008433/1

Overview:

"Shilpdipaka" is a significant text in the field of Vastu Shastra and architecture, written in Gujarati with Sanskrit verses. It provides detailed guidance on various aspects of building construction, town planning, and the creation of structures, adhering to traditional Indian architectural principles. The text is presented as a guide for "Sutradhars" (architects/builders) and aims to explain complex architectural knowledge in a simple and accessible manner.

Key Themes and Contents:

1. Introduction to Shilpashastra:

   • The text defines Shilpashastra as the knowledge and science of building various structures, from houses and step-wells (Vavs) to flying machines (Viman) and divine weapons.
   • It highlights the divine architect Vishwakarma as the originator of this science, who possessed extraordinary skills in creating miraculous devices and structures.
   • It mentions other important texts on the subject like "Rajvallabh" and "Vishwakarma Vidya Prakash" but notes their complexity for ordinary craftsmen. "Shilpdipaka" is presented as a more accessible alternative.

2. The Architect (Sutradhar):

   • The text outlines the qualities of an ideal Sutradhar, emphasizing characteristics like good conduct, intelligence, expertise in scriptures, absence of greed, forgiveness, and conduct like a Brahmin.
   • It stresses the importance of choosing auspicious times for commencing new projects.

3. Measurement and Units:

   • A significant portion of the early chapters is dedicated to defining various units of measurement, starting from the smallest (like "Anu," "Renu," "Kesagra") up to larger units like "Gaj" (cubit) and "Yojana" (a league).
   • It explains different types of "Gaj" (Uttam, Madhyam, Kanishth) and their corresponding divisions and the deities associated with them.
   • The text details the calculation of "Ay" (a measurement related to the longevity and prosperity of a building), explaining how to derive it from the dimensions of the land and the owner's name and birth stars.

4. Site Selection and Preparation:

   • Land Testing (Bhumi Pariksha): It describes methods for testing land quality based on color, smell, taste, and the behavior of animals, associating specific soil types with different social classes (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra).
   • Shalya Nidan (Removal of Obstructions): A crucial section details how to identify and remove "Shalya" (hidden obstructions or negative energies) from the construction site using a grid system based on letters and their corresponding consequences, emphasizing that construction should not proceed without removing these obstructions.
   • Foundation (Khat Karma): The text provides guidance on the auspicious directions and times for digging the foundation, considering the position of "Nag's head" and the suitability of months and tithis (lunar days). It also describes the ritualistic procedures for laying the foundation stone.
   • Directional Considerations: It emphasizes the importance of aligning the house entrance (Dwar) according to the "Vatsa Chakra" (a cyclical diagram based on planetary positions) and the "Vatsa's head" to ensure prosperity and avoid negative influences.
   • Auspicious Months and Tithis: The text lists auspicious and inauspicious months and tithis for starting construction, associating specific outcomes (wealth, sorrow, loss, etc.) with each.

5. Architectural Elements and Design:

   • House Types and Proportions: It describes various types of houses based on the status of the owner, from commoners to kings, specifying the appropriate dimensions and proportions for their residences.
   • Placement of Elements: Detailed instructions are given for the placement of various rooms and facilities within a house, such as kitchens, bathrooms, storage rooms, stables, temples, living quarters for different family members and servants, and even areas for entertainment and cattle.
   • Columns (Stambh): The text provides guidelines for the placement and proportions of columns, emphasizing their structural and Vastu significance.
   • Doors and Windows (Dwar, Khidki): It offers specific rules for the size, placement, and design of doors and windows, including the concept of "Vedh" (unfavorable alignments) and how to avoid them. It discusses the "Vatsa Chakra" in relation to door placement and the "Rahukal" (inauspicious periods).
   • Vastu Shuddhi and Purification: It mentions the importance of Vastu Shanti (ritualistic purification of the site) and the placement of Kalash (water pots) at auspicious times.
   • Materials and Construction: It touches upon the use of different materials and their properties.

6. Astrological and Auspicious Considerations:

   • Nakshatras (Lunar Mansions): The text extensively uses Nakshatras for determining auspicious timings and the suitability of placements. It categorizes Nakshatras into Ganas (Deva, Manushya, Rakshasa) and discusses their compatibility.
   • Planetary Influences (Graha): The text explains the role of planets in determining the auspiciousness of construction activities and the well-being of the inhabitants. It discusses concepts like "Chandra Valay" (lunar influence), "Vam Ravi" (left-handed sun), "Rahukal," and "Var Shul" (directional afflictions).
   • "Ay" and "Vya" (Longevity and Expenditure): It provides methods for calculating "Ay" (related to prosperity) and "Vya" (related to expenditure or loss), emphasizing the need for "Ay" to be greater than "Vya" for a prosperous dwelling.
   • "Dashasandhi" and Compatibility: The text delves into the concept of "Dashasandhi" (conjunctions or relationships between different measures) and "Vair" (enmities) between Nakshatras and Ganas, advising avoidance of incompatible combinations.
   • "Cheghadiya" (Auspicious Time Segments): It outlines the calculation and use of auspicious time segments during the day and night for various activities.
   • Shukana and Apashukana (Omens): The text lists positive and negative omens to be observed while traveling to a site or commencing a project, along with remedies for warding off ill effects.

7. Specific Dwelling Types:

   • Palaces and Royal Residences: It provides detailed dimensions and design considerations for the residences of kings and nobility, reflecting their status.
   • Temples and Public Buildings: The text also touches upon guidelines for constructing temples and other public structures.

Significance:

"Shilpdipaka" is a valuable resource for understanding the intricate principles of ancient Indian architecture and town planning. It reflects a holistic approach that integrates scientific understanding of construction with astrological, cosmological, and spiritual considerations, aiming to create harmonious and prosperous living environments. The book's focus on practical application and accessible language makes it a significant contribution to the study of Vastu Shastra.