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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) v2.c14.s27: Chapter XXXIX: The Measurements of Doors (Dvāra-māna-vidhāna)

Mānasāra Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Mānasāra-Śilpaśāstra; III. Mānasāra on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Mānasāra: Translation; V. Architecture of Mānasāra: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v2.c14.s27

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English

Chapter XXXIX: The Measurements of Doors (Dvāra-māna-vidhāna)

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The common rule is that the height of a door should be twice its breadth. But various alternative measurements are also given. The height of the larger doors may vary from 1½ cubits (*hasta*) to 7 cubits, the increment being by 6 *aṅgulas*. The height of the smaller doors varies from one cubit to three cubits, the increment being by 3 *aṅgulas*. In the former case, therefore, we have twenty-three, in the latter seventeen, varieties of dimensions.

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These dimensions are prescribed for doors in the *jāti* class of buildings. But other measurements are given for doors in houses of the *chhanda*, *vikalpa* and *ābhāsa* classes. The alternative dimensions are modified by the application of the *shad-varga* formulas.

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The door-posts and other parts of the door are then described at great length. Doors are generally double but single doors are also mentioned.

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Doors are profusely decorated with foliated and floral ornaments. The images of Gaṇeśa, Sarasvatī and other deities should be carved over the entrance.