Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture and design that aims to balance and harmonize the energies in a given space. It is based on the concept that the physical environment around us affects our well-being, happiness, and success. The principles of Vastu guide the placement and orientation of various elements within a home or workplace to ensure a positive flow of energy. This article explores specific Vastu guidelines regarding the Kannimoola (southwest corner) and other cardinal and intercardinal directions, drawing upon established principles to foster a balanced living environment.
The Significance of Kannimoola (Southwest Corner)
In the context of Kerala architecture and broader Vastu Shastra, the southwest corner, known as Kannimoola, holds a unique and critical position. It is often considered a "nightmare" for many if not properly utilized, leading to significant structural changes in homes to correct it. The primary principle is that the southwest corner must be kept free from water bodies, cuts, and specific rooms that can disrupt its stability and energy.
According to Vastu guidelines, the southwest part of a building should not contain: * Water bodies such as wells or septic tanks. * Cuts or extensions in the building structure. * Kitchens or bathrooms.
The reasoning provided is that the southwest corner is the most suitable place for the head of the family. Scientifically, this area should not be a place where water is stored or waste is disposed of, as it is meant for stability and strength. In traditional times, toilets were often out-houses, separate from the main structure, preserving the integrity of the corners.
For the correct utilization of Kannimoola, the following recommendations are made: * Usage: It should be used for clean purposes. * Preference: The master bedroom is the first preference for this location. * Alternative: The northeast corner is considered the second-best option for the master bedroom.
Correcting the Kannimoola is a priority in Vastu consultations. The fact that today 90 percent of Kannimoola spots in Kerala are toilet-free indicates a widespread acceptance and application of this principle to remove Vastu defects.
Directional Attributes and Elemental Influences
Vastu Shastra categorizes directions into eight main zones, each governed by specific energies and elements. Understanding these helps in planning the layout of a residence or commercial space.
The Cardinal Directions
North Direction (Uttar Disha): The north is known as Uttar Disha or Udichi. It is a direction associated with prosperity and opportunities.
South Direction (Dakshin Disha): The south is known as Dakshin or Avachi. According to Vaastu Shastra, the South is the direction of Yama, who is the in charge of death. It is often perceived as a direction that requires careful planning. While a south-facing entrance is not always bad, it demands precise architectural planning to mitigate potentially destructive influences.
East Direction (Poorva): The east is known as Poorva, Poorab, or Purva. It is the direction of the rising sun, symbolizing light and new beginnings.
West Direction (Paschim): The west is known as Paschim or Pratichi.
The Intercardinal Directions
North-East Direction (Ishanya Kon): The northeast corner is highly charged with divine energy and is considered a tranquility zone. It is the direction from which cosmic, divine, spiritual, intellectual, intuitive, and knowledgeable energies enter the home or business premises. To harness these energies, the northeast must be kept more open, lightweight, clear, and spacious. * Water Resources: This is the most auspicious location for water resources. A northeast zone adorned with flourishing green fields, rivers, or water streams brings positive energy and prosperity. * Vastu Defects: Missing the northeast corner is a serious Vastu defect. Additionally, having a bathroom located in the northeast corner makes the space polluted and negatively impacts the overall energy flow and balance.
South-East Direction (Agneya Kon): The south-east lies midway between the east and the south and is known as Agneya. Agni (fire) is the in-charge of this direction. Fire is considered the preserver and defender of every being. Agni also carries the message of people who worship and offer oblations with devotion to the creator. It is believed that worshippers of Agni are economically strong as well as long-living. * Ideal Placement: This is the best Vastu direction for the kitchen in a house. Even the pantry in an office should be in the southeast zone. * Vastu Defects: Faults in the southeast corner may cause financial worries, quarrels, litigation, and illness.
South-West Direction (Nairutya Kon): The southwest is known as Nairutya. As detailed under the Kannimoola section, this corner is vital for the stability of the head of the family. It should be kept heavy and stable, free from water elements and cuts.
North-West Direction (Vayavya Kon): The north-west is known as Vayavya. While specific details about this direction are not extensively provided in the source data, the placement of certain elements is mentioned. For instance, the north-west is noted as a second option for the kitchen, after the southeast. Additionally, septic tanks are considered suitable for the northwest and southeast, provided they are not on the diagonal line.
Holistic Placement of Home Elements
Vastu Shastra provides a framework for placing essential elements within a home to ensure harmony and prosperity. The following guidelines are derived from the principles of energy balancing.
The Kitchen
The kitchen represents the fire element and is crucial for the health and wealth of the inhabitants. * Best Position: The southeast (Agneya) corner is the most ideal location for a kitchen. * Second Option: The northwest (Vayavya) corner is a suitable alternative.
The Bedroom
The bedroom is a place for rest and rejuvenation, and its placement affects the mental and physical health of the residents. * Best Position: The southwest (Nairutya/Kannimoola) corner is the best position for a bedroom, particularly for the head of the family. * Second Option: The northeast (Ishanya) corner is the second-best option.
Water Sources and Waste Management
Proper management of water and waste is essential in Vastu to prevent negative energy accumulation. * Wells and Underground Water Tanks: The northeast corner is the best suitable place. However, it is important that they are not placed exactly on the diagonal line. The source suggests choosing either NE 1 or NE 2 zones within the northeast quadrant. * Septic Tanks: The northwest and southeast corners are suitable places for septic tanks. Similar to water sources, they should not be placed on the diagonal line.
The Scientific Foundation of Vastu
Vastu Kerala, an organization dedicated to Vastu principles, emphasizes the scientific foundation of Vastu. They aim to dispel myths and misconceptions by offering scientifically-backed advice that is accurate and reliable. The principles are presented as natural law-based architecture. For example, ancient structures, including religious worship places, and even pyramids are cited as true examples of orientation principles. This approach ensures that the guidance provided is not merely traditional but also aligned with logical and evidence-based solutions.
The importance of using a compass to determine directions is also highlighted. Accurate orientation is fundamental to applying Vastu principles correctly. Even slight deviations can alter the energy dynamics of a space.
Conclusion
The application of Vastu Shastra involves a deep understanding of directional energies and their influence on human life. The southwest corner, or Kannimoola, is particularly significant for ensuring the stability and well-being of the family head, necessitating a careful, water-free, and stable construction. Similarly, the northeast corner serves as a gateway for divine and positive energies, making it ideal for water sources and keeping the space open and clean. The southeast, governed by the fire element, is the prime location for the kitchen, fostering economic strength and health. By adhering to these principles—such as placing the master bedroom in the southwest, the kitchen in the southeast, and water sources in the northeast—individuals can create a living environment that supports balance, prosperity, and holistic well-being. These guidelines, backed by a scientific perspective, offer a structured path to harmonizing one's physical space with natural laws.