Diagonal plots, also known as Vidisha or angular plots, represent a unique category of land in Vastu Shastra. Unlike standard rectangular plots aligned with cardinal directions, these plots have their major axes located primarily in the corners, causing the magnetic meridian to make an angle of 45 degrees with the main axis rather than passing through the center. While large numbers of current land offerings are diagonal or Vidisha plots, they require specific architectural and spatial planning strategies to harmonize with surrounding nature. According to Vastu Shastra, these plots can be treated effectively by understanding their specific geometry and applying rectification techniques to balance energies.
It is important to note that Vastu Shastra principles are a set of recommendations rather than strict rules. However, for diagonal plots, specific guidelines exist to ensure that the construction aligns with the energy fields of the land. The fundamental definition of a Vidisha plot is any land that bends one degree or more with the North-South or East-West line. In practical application, experienced consultants often consider a tolerance of one to three degrees not to be a significant error, but plots with larger deviations require careful architectural intervention.
Understanding Vidisha Plot Geometry
To apply Vastu Shastra rules effectively to a Vidisha plot, one must first understand the precise geometry of the land. The process involves creating a scaled map using angular measurements, length, and breadth. Software such as AutoCAD or graph paper can be used to draw the map. Crucially, the lines of the cardinal direction must be drawn at the correct degree, ensuring they pass through the Brahmasthan, or the center, of the plot.
Once the center is established, the Vastu Purusha Mandala is overlaid. The total 360 degrees around the Brahmasthan are divided into 32 equal divisions, with each division measuring 11.25 degrees. These 32 angular segments represent the 32 energy fields, also known as the Paisacha Vithi or the 32 doors of Vastu Shastra. Additionally, the 16 Vastu zones or directions are calculated by dividing the 360 degrees into 16 angular divisions of 22.5 degrees each. This precise mapping allows the consultant to determine the correct Vastu zones and 45 energy fields specific to the diagonal plot, ensuring that the layout supports positive energy flow.
Rectification and Construction Guidelines
When building on a diagonal plot, the physical orientation of the structure is paramount. A critical rule is that construction should never be oblique or diagonal to the plot boundaries. Even if the plot itself is skewed, the building must be constructed parallel to the boundaries of the plot. Oblique construction prevents the full benefits of Vastu Shastra from being realized.
Several specific rectification measures are recommended for Vidisha plots:
- Open Space: The North-East (NE) direction of a diagonal plot should have the maximum open space. Leaving this area open allows for the ingress of positive energy.
- Building Placement: Ideally, the main building should be constructed in the South-West part of the plot.
- Angle Correction: The Western and Southern angles of the plot should ideally be right angles (90 degrees). Any deviation, whether more or less than 90 degrees, should be rectified if possible.
- Basement Construction: If a basement is to be included, it should be constructed only in the North, East, and North-East sectors of the plot.
Curved roads adjacent to diagonal plots should be avoided, and within the compound wall, there should be no curves or oblique cuts. These structural adjustments help to neutralize the irregular energy patterns caused by the plot's tilt.
Impact of Plot Angles on Occupants
The specific angles of a diagonal plot can influence the fortunes of the occupants. Vastu Shastra provides insights into how different angular measurements correlate with wealth, fame, and stability:
- North Angle 88° and East Angle 92°: This configuration is believed to increase wealth, though fame may be limited. It is essential in this case that the Southern and Western angles remain at 90° to maintain balance.
- East Angle 88° and North Angle 92°: This arrangement favors fame and publicity. However, the financial earnings may not stay for a long span of time.
- East and North Angles both 92°: This creates a pentagonal plot shape, which is considered unstable. Occupants may face instability, frequently shifting jobs, and while wealth may be earned, it does not stay long. Such plots are generally advised to be avoided.
Road Placement and Utility for Diagonal Plots
The location of roads relative to the diagonal plot significantly affects its suitability for various purposes. Vastu Shastra classifies these based on the direction of the road access:
- North-East Road: Plots with roads on the North-East side are considered highly auspicious. They are suitable for Residences, Temples, Schools, Libraries, Shops, and Factories.
- North-West Road: These are of medium level suitability. They are recommended for Residences, Agricultural purposes, Showrooms for vehicles, and Garages.
- South-East Road: These plots are suitable for Hotels, Residences, Courts, businesses run by women, Entertainment venues, and Factories.
- South-West Road: Plots with roads on the South-West are generally unsuitable for residential purposes but can be used for specific business ventures such as Hardware, Tyre shops, Permit rooms, Accident hospitals, and Orthopedics.
If a diagonal plot has roads on two, three, or four sides, it yields mixed results. However, regardless of the number of roads, the South-West side should not be used as the main entrance.
Placement of Rooms and Heavy Structures
To create a harmonious flow of energy, the internal layout of the building on a diagonal plot must follow specific directional guidelines relative to the cardinal points:
- Main Entrance: The main entrance should be located on the longer side of the plot, ideally facing the North or East direction. These directions are believed to bring in positive energy and natural light. The Northeastern corner is the preferred location for the entrance.
- Prayer Room: The prayer room or puja area should be placed in the Northeastern corner of the plot or building.
- Bedrooms: Bedrooms are best located in the Southwestern corner. This placement is believed to support stability and rest.
- Kitchen: The kitchen should be situated in the Southeastern corner.
- Heavy Construction and Garage: Heavy construction elements and garages should be placed in the Southwest direction. This helps to balance the energies of the plot, ensuring that the heavy mass does not block the positive energy flow into the living areas.
Conclusion
Diagonal or Vidisha plots present unique challenges but are manageable through the application of precise Vastu Shastra principles. By treating the plot as two rectangles, utilizing the longer side for the main entrance, and ensuring that construction is parallel to the boundaries, the irregular geometry can be harmonized. Key considerations include maximizing open space in the North-East, placing heavy structures in the South-West, and rectifying any angles that deviate from 90 degrees. Understanding the specific implications of the plot’s angles and the location of surrounding roads allows for the optimal selection of the site for residential or commercial use. Through these methodical corrections, a diagonal plot can be transformed into a balanced and supportive environment.