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.s7.24

v6.c40.s7.24

'Apart from the minor differences within the approved range at regards special forms for the several orders, the structural type that is regarded as unorthodox is described clearly as round and domes shaped (*parimaṇḍalā*, *Śat. Brā.*, XIII, 8, 1). That whereby the Easterners make the *śmaśāna* (funerary structure) separate from the earth is described by the usual Vedic word (*chamū*) for a large hemispherical bowl, which must here refer to something like a vault or dome of solid stone or bricks.' The structure is then 'enclosed by an indefinite number of enclosing stones'³ (*Śat. Brā.*, XIII, 8, 2, 2) 'as in the case of fire-hearth.' The orthodox style is stated to be square or quadrilateral not separate from earth (*ibid*, XIII, 8, 1, 1; 8, 1, 2). Bricks one foot square are used in its construction (*ibid*, XIII, 8, 4, 11). A memorial mound like a fire-altar is prescribed for the builders of the same (*ibid*, XIII, 8, 1, 1).