Sthapatyaveda is the science of architecture, construction, and town planning. It includes principles for designing buildings, temples, and cities in harmony with natural laws.

Sthāpatyaveda is traditionally associated with the Atharvaveda and focuses on the principles of architecture, construction, and town planning. It forms the foundation of traditional Indian architecture and encompasses a wide range of topics, including the design and construction of temples, houses, and public buildings, as well as the layout of cities and towns.

Here are some key aspects of Sthāpatyaveda:

1. Vāstu Shastra: A significant part of Sthāpatyaveda is Vāstu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and construction. Vāstu Shastra provides guidelines for building structures that are in harmony with nature and the environment. It covers everything from the orientation of buildings to the materials used in construction.
2. Temple Architecture: Sthāpatyaveda is particularly important in the design and construction of Hindu temples. It prescribes the dimensions, proportions, and orientations of temples to ensure they are constructed in a way that is spiritually auspicious and conducive to worship.
3. Town Planning: Sthāpatyaveda also deals with the planning of cities and towns. It includes guidelines for the layout of streets, the placement of buildings, and the distribution of public spaces. The principles aim to create harmonious living environments that promote the well-being of the inhabitants.
4. Iconography and Sculpture: In addition to architecture, Sthāpatyaveda also covers the creation of religious icons and sculptures. It provides detailed instructions on the proportions and forms of deities to be depicted in temples and other sacred spaces.

The principles of Sthāpatyaveda continue to influence Indian architecture and design, and its teachings are still studied by architects and builders today.

The origin of Sthāpatyaveda is deeply rooted in the ancient Hindu tradition, where it is considered a part of the broader Vedic literature. While not one of the four main Vedas, Sthāpatyaveda is considered an Upaveda, or a supplementary Veda, specifically associated with the Atharvaveda.

Mythological Origins

In Hindu mythology, Sthāpatyaveda is attributed to the divine architect Vishwakarma, who is regarded as the cosmic architect responsible for creating the universe and various divine structures. Vishwakarma is often credited with the knowledge and teachings of Sthāpatyaveda, which he imparted to humans for the purpose of building temples, palaces, cities, and other structures in accordance with cosmic principles.

Vedic Connection

The association of Sthāpatyaveda with the Atharvaveda links it to the spiritual and ritualistic traditions of the Vedic period (around 1500-500 BCE). The Atharvaveda is known for its practical approach to knowledge, encompassing subjects like medicine, rituals, and everyday life, making it a fitting source for the origins of a text focused on architecture and construction.

Development and Codification

Over time, the principles of Sthāpatyaveda were codified into texts and treatises, most notably in the Vāstu Shastra. The exact time frame for the development of these texts is difficult to pinpoint, but they are believed to have been composed between the early centuries CE and the medieval period. The Manasara and Mayamata are two well-known texts that elaborate on the principles of Vāstu Shastra and are closely linked to the teachings of Sthāpatyaveda.

Influence and Legacy

The knowledge contained in Sthāpatyaveda influenced the construction of many significant structures in ancient India, including temples, palaces, and cities. Its principles have been passed down through generations of architects and builders, continuing to influence Indian architecture to this day.

In summary, the origin of Sthāpatyaveda is a blend of mythological, spiritual, and practical knowledge that evolved over centuries, grounded in the Vedic tradition and enriched by the contributions of various scholars and practitioners in the field of architecture.