Significance of Height of the door

The height of the door, based on Vastushastra and Shilpashastra, is defined as the vertical measurement that should ideally be twice the width. This architectural guideline emphasizes that the height of a door enhances its aesthetic and functional properties. Additionally, ancient texts, including the Vishnudharmottarapurana, reinforce this principle especially for temple doors, underlining the importance of adhering to these proportions in architectural design.

Synonyms: Door height

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Height of the door'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the height of the door symbolizes architectural principles where it should ideally be twice its breadth, a guideline emphasized in ancient texts like the Vishnudharmottarapurana, reflecting harmony in design.

Significance in Shilpashastra (iconography):
Shilpashastra Books

From: Manasara (English translation)

(1) A specified vertical dimension of the door, critical to its structural design and aesthetics.[1] (2) The vertical distance measured to determine the appropriate height of the phallus in relation to the door's width.[2]

Shilpashastra represents the ancient Indian science (shastra) of creative arts (shilpa) such as sculpture, iconography and painting. Closely related to Vastushastra (architecture), they often share the same literature.

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)

(1) The vertical measurement of a door that is suggested to be twice its width.[3]

From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)

(1) Common architectural rule stating that the height of a door should ideally be twice its breadth, although variations are discussed in ancient texts.[4]

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

Plural form: Height of the doors.