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.s17.5

v6.c40.s17.5

The second part deals with the *pīṭha*, which is the stand upon which the phallus proper is placed. The *praṇāla* (*lit.* canal, drain) or *yonidvāra*, and all other parts of the *pīṭha* are described in detail, together with their measurements. The same subject is discussed in greater detail in the next chapter. The general appearance of a phallus is well known; the *Mānasāra* does not deviate much from it. The *mūla* or the lower part, technically called *Brahma-bhāga* is square (*chatur-asra*, *lit.* four-cornered), whereas the middle part, called *Vishṇubhāga*, is octagonal (*ashṭāgrābha*), and the upper part, called *Śiva-bhāga*, is round. But these shapes of the three parts may be interchanged in some cases. The top is sometimes shaped like a bud (*kuḍmala*) or a leaf (*pattra*).¹