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.c16.217

v2.c16.217

There are only a few treatises wherein the term *Mānasāra* is mentioned. The *Agni-purāṇa*, as already pointed out,¹ has some passages of uncertain meanings, wherein the term occurs. For instance, it is stated, that above the *Suka-nāsa* (literally, parrot’s nose) or gargoyles, that is the water-spout in a building, there should be a *vedi* or platform furnished with a neck. And this should be as prescribed in the *Mānasāra* (*mānasāraka*), or, the object of it is to make a passage for refuse (*malasāraka*).² This latter interpretation seems untenable; for the adjective is used in the neuter singular, and ordinarily would not qualify a feminine singular noun. If the first rendering be acceptable, the expression would form a separate clause, *iti mānasārakam*, meaning, this is in accordance with the rules of the *Mānasāra*.