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.c16.362

v2.c16.362

A similarly striking omission in connection with the Śiva temples is also noticed in another important matter, namely, the foundations. Foundations of buildings are divided into two classes—according as they belong to temples and to human dwellings. Of the residential buildings, there are four classes of foundations according to the four castes, Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaiśya and Śūdra⁵. Of temples, those of Vishṇu and Brahmā are illustrated. Śiva is not mentioned at all in this connection beyond the author's usual method of passing on with the remark that the others should be similarly done. Very little is authoritatively known about the places in India where Brahmā worship was ever so much favoured as Vaishṇavism in Northern India, and Śaivism in Southern India. The author's predilection for Vaishṇavism seems to be indicated by this point also.