Mayamata and Building Construction (study)
by Ripan Ghosh | 2024 | 61,593 words
This page relates ‘Madhyavedika (Making of the central platform)’ of the study dealing with Mayamata—an ancient Indian architectural treatise dealing with building construction (bhavana-nirmana). It forms part of “Vastuvidya”: a stream of Sanskrit technical literature encompassing village and town planning, temple architecture and other aspects like site selection, orientation, and structural arrangements aimed at promoting harmony and prosperity.
Part 8.5 - Madhyavedika (Making of the central platform)
[Full title: Features of houses for the four classes (caturgṛha-vidhāna) (5) Making of the central platform (madhyavedika)]
The central platform, or madhyavedikā, is a place where dvijāti (brāhamaṇa, kṣatriya and vaiśya) make their offerings thrice in a day, and the place is always decorated with flowers and perfumes. A brahmavedi is also arranged in the center of the madhyavedikā, occupying half portion of it. If this is made for kings or vaiśya, then the dimensions is made reduced by six digits. But when the platform is made for a śūdra, there should be no platform placed for brahmavedikā.
Maya refers that—
ṣaṭṣḍaṅgulahīnaṃ syāttanmānaṃ nṛpavaiśyayoḥ |
śūdrādyantarajātīnāṃ na kuryād brahmavedikāṃ || (Mayamata 27.26)
The reduction in dimensions by six digits for platforms made for kings or vaiśya reflects a distinction in social status. The absence of a platform called brahmavedikā in case of a śūdra reflect the rigidity of the traditional caste-based system or religious beliefs. It is also ensures the preservation of social and ritual boundaries.