Characteristics and Types of Vāstu Structures: From Pillars to Multi-Hall Houses
Vāstuśāstra describes not only the placement of rooms and halls but also the minute details of pillars, entrances, and verandahs. From simple two-hall houses to elaborate four-hall mansions, each structure carries its own results—either auspicious or inauspicious—for the residents.
Nine Divisions of the Pillar
In Vāstuśāstra, the pillar (stambha) is divided into nine parts, each with a distinct name and function. When measured proportionally, the lowest part supports the load, and the upper divisions gradually taper in size.
The base of the pillar is known as Udvahana (Carrier), which bears the entire weight. Above it lies the Ghata (Pot-shaped) section, followed by the Padma (Lotus) that adds both strength and beauty. The fourth part is the Uttaroṣṭha (Upper Lip), positioned just above the lotus. The fifth section is Bhāratulā (Balance), calculated as one-fifth of the pillar’s thickness. Rising further are the Tulā (Scale) and the Upatulā (Sub-scale), continuing the pillar’s progression.
Each of these divisions is carefully proportioned, tapering gradually—often by a quarter or slightly less—to maintain balance and elegance.
Characteristics of Sarvato-bhadra Vāstu
A building surrounded by verandahs (ālindas) on all four sides and having entrances on each of the four directions is called Sarvato-bhadra Vāstu. Such a design is considered highly auspicious and is prescribed for kings and gods. It ensures prosperity, well-being, and grandeur.
Construction of Chatush-shāla (Four-Hall) Houses
The construction of a Chatush-shāla, or four-hall house, follows a specific order. The first hall is raised in the south, laying the foundation of the structure. Next comes the western hall, followed by the northern hall. Finally, the eastern hall is constructed in the middle, completing the design.
This systematic sequence ensures both stability and harmony in the dwelling.
Types of Dvishāla (Two-Hall) Houses
Dvishāla houses are classified into multiple types based on the position of their halls. Each type produces different results.
Vātākhyā Gṛha
When the southern hall is Durmukha and the western hall is Khara, the house is called Vātākhyā. It is considered inauspicious, bringing vata diseases (rheumatic or wind-related ailments).
Siddhārtha Gṛha
When the southern hall is Durmukha and the western hall is Dhānya, it is called Siddhārtha. This type is highly auspicious, ensuring success and prosperity for the residents.
Yamasūrya Gṛha
When the western hall is Dhānya and the northern hall is Jaya, the structure is called Yamasūrya. It is death-inflicting and extremely inauspicious.
Daṇḍa Gṛha
When the eastern hall is Khara and the northern hall is Dhānya, the house is called Daṇḍa. It causes repeated punishments and troubles.
Kācha Gṛha
When the southern hall is Durmukha and the northern hall is Jaya, the house is called Kācha. It brings loss of relatives and wealth.
Chullī Gṛha
When the eastern hall is Khara and the western hall is Dhānya, the house is called Chullī. It ensures wealth, grain, and increase in cattle.
Additional Dvishāla Variations
Śobhana Vāstu
Southern hall is Vipakṣa and western hall is Krūra, the house is called Śobhana. This form bestows immense wealth and prosperity.
Kumbha Vāstu
Both southern and western halls are Vijaya, the house is called Kumbha. This design grants abundance in wife, sons, and family prosperity.
Nanda Vāstu
Eastern hall is Dhana and western hall is Dhānya, the house is called *Nanda *. This type is wealth-giving and beautiful.
Śaṅku Vāstu
When halls named Vijaya exist in two directions, the house is called Śaṅku. It grants good fortune.
Saṁpuṭa Vāstu
When halls named Vipula exist in two directions, the house is called Saṁpuṭa. It ensures abundance of wealth and grains.
Kānta Vāstu
When in any two directions, there are halls (śālā) named Suvaktra or Manorama—that is, either Suvaktra on both sides or Manorama on both sides—such a structure is called Kānta Vāstu. It brings beauty and prosperity.
Trishāla (Three-Hall) Houses
Trishāla houses are also classified according to which direction lacks a hall.
1. Hiraṇyanābha
If the northern side lacks a hall, it is called Hiraṇyanābha. This design is auspicious for kings, bringing wealth and happiness.
2. Sukṣetra
If the eastern side lacks a hall, it is called Sukṣetra. This ensures growth of progeny and wealth.
3. Chullī
If the southern side lacks a hall, it is called Chullī. This results in loss of wealth and descendants.
4. Pakṣaghna
If the western side lacks a hall, it is called Pakṣaghna. This brings immorality, corruption, and ruin among the male residents.
Note: Out of these, Hiraṇyanābha and Sukṣetra are auspicious, while Chullī and Pakṣaghna are inauspicious.
Chatush-shāla (Four-Hall) Houses
A house with halls in all four directions is called a Chatush-shāla. There are several variations:
Sarvato-bhadra
Surrounded by verandahs and having doors on all four sides. Auspicious for kings and deities, it grants prosperity and comfort.
Nandyāvarta
Starting from the wall (bhitti) and proceeding in a clockwise (pradakṣiṇa) direction, when there are halls (alinda) with doors in three directions except the west, such a structure is called Nandyāvarta Vāstu. This Nandyāvarta Vāstu is considered excellent, bestowing sons and grandsons, and granting good health. It is intended for the residence of noble and distinguished persons.
Vardhamāna
Three verandahs and doors are constructed in the cardinal directions except south. This design brings growth, prosperity, and progeny for all varṇas.
A southern doorway is generally considered inauspicious. Therefore, except in Sarvatobhadra and Nandyāvarta structures, it is not provided.
Svastika
Western verandah adjoins the south-north hall, with doors only in the east. This structure is auspicious for all.
Rucaka
Eastern and western verandahs adjoin the north-south hall, with additional verandahs in between. If there is no northern entrance, it is called Rucaka. This design is fortunate and auspicious.
From the smallest details of pillar divisions to the large-scale planning of Dvishāla, Trishāla, and Chatush-shāla houses, Vāstuśāstra lays down exact specifications for dimensions, directions, and proportions.
Each type of house has a direct effect on the prosperity, health, or decline of its residents. The science blends architecture, symbolism, and cosmic harmony, ensuring that dwellings not only provide shelter but also shape the destiny of those who live within them.