Manasara Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Manasara-Shilpashastra; III. Manasara on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Manasara: Translation; V. Architecture of Manasara: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v1.c6.s31.40

v1.c6.s31.40

The necessity of these Shad-varaga formulas seems due to the fact that in most instances where the measurement of any object is concerned, the Āgamas, the Bimbamāna, the Mānasāra and the other works on architecture quote more dimensions than one. Thus for the length that an object is to be of, they instead of giving a single figure would quote, say, nine different measures. The Mānasāra in fact invariably gives nine different lengths, nine different breadths, and five heights concerning a building or image. Out of these different and varying measures which is to be selected would be determined by the application of the six formulas. Any of the different measures prescribed is open to be accepted only when it satisfies the tests of the Shad-varga. By a verification of the measurements with the respective formula it would eliminate the risk of dimensions being selected that would be disproportionate among themselves and improper. This might have been the purpose that the authorities had in contemplation in prescribing the rules of the Āyādi Shad-varga in all the architectural treatises. The testing of measurements by the Shad-varga thus formed one of the most important points to be followed in architecture and sculpture, and we find a reference to it in these ancient works so many times and almost without exception wherever there are any specifications prescribed.