Vastu-shastra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v1.c10.s2.4

v1.c10.s2.4

A Sthapati is not only adept in the Śāstra, i. e. the science of architecture, the traditional lore as handed down from generation to generation and expounded by the ancient Achāryas like Viśvakarmā, Maya, Garga, Agastya, Kāśyapa, Mānasāra, etc. etc. ; he should also have the practical knowledge of the Śāstra. He should be an adept builder—a skilled artcraftsman. Again only the knowledge of the practical experience and the artistic perfection thereof will not do, if he lacks the personal insight, the genius of an architect (cf. the example of Kailash at Ellora). This is very important, because at times the Śāstric canons and the practical experience are all of no avail and it is his personal intuition, the immediate perception which comes to his rescue. Apart from these three qualifications, an architect must be a man of character above reproach both in the precepts and in example. Only such an equipped person can be a real Sthapati.