Part 9.6 - Dvārasthāna (Suitable position for door)

[Full title: The arrangement of doors (dvāra-vidhāna) (6) Suitable position for door (dvārasthāna)]

The median door (madhyadvāra) should be suitable for gods, brāhmaṇa, and kings. If this door is to be placed at one side of the median axis, it would be suitable for all castes and classes. It is stated in the paramaśāyin diagram as mentioned in padavinyāsa (diagrams) in this dissertetion that Mahendra, Rākṣasa, Puṣpadanta, and Bhallāta are the four suitable squares where an auspicious door can be placed. It is also stated that if the building is oriented with an underground passage (Upadvāra), then it should be arranged on the squares of Parjanya and Bhṛśa; Dauvārika and Śoṣa or Nāga and Aditi. There is another suggestion found regarding brahmastāna. 

Maya says that: 

brahmaṇo’bhimukhaṃ brahmāparāvṛttaṃ niṣidhyāte || (Mayamata 30.46)

[“It is forbidden (to place a door) opposite the square of Brahmā so that one’s back is turned to Brahmā upon leaving.”]^[1]

The brahmasthāna is considered the most sacred part of a building, symbolizing the presence of Brahmā, the creator god of the universe. Turning one's back to this sacred space upon leaving the house can be seen as an act of disrespect or disregard for the divine presence. This goes against the principles of reverence and honor that are central to many Hindu beliefs.

The dimensions of the door should be equal at the top as well as at the bottom. It is also specified that if the sound of the door is noisy, like noise of washing of washer men, it would bring misfortune for the owner.

Footnotes and references:

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[1]:

B. Dagens, Mayamata, vol. 2.p.695