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) v6.c40.s12.t6.8

v6.c40.s12.t6.8

As regard the measurement and the shape, it (the foundation) should be in conformity with buildings of one to twelve storeys. The twelve varieties of dimensions (of breadth and length) should begin respectively with three and four parts (*mātras*, i.e. *aṅgulas*) and end at twenty-five and twenty-six, the increment being by two. The depth of the excavation should be equal to its breadth and less by one-eighth or one-fifth, or similarly less by one-fourth. All these (measures) are stated to be (taken) in rods (of four cubits). The breadth of the excavation should be equal to the width of the (main) pillar of the building, or it may be made less by one-eighth, or be three-fourths of the breadth. The depth (of the excavation) should be made as aforesaid. The width of all the (four) walls should be one, two, or three parts out of the three parts into which the depth is divided. The depth of the excavation being divided into four parts one part is given to its base, two parts to its pillar and one part to the entablature. It (the excavation) should be shaped like a three-fold square pavilion at its entrance into the watery part (i.e. the bottom).