Vastu-shastra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v1.c15.7
Vāstu-śāstra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v1.c15.7
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v1.c15.7
Then follow their building elaborations. We know that the Vedic altar was the precursor of Temple-architecture in India. The laying of the brick (cf. citi-altar) and its attendant paraphernalia gave rise to what is called the religious architecture, the Pūjā-Vāstu—the temples and shrines (especially the sanctuary, the Garbhagṛha). Iṣṭikā-cayana, reminiscent of the Vedic altar, is prescribed here with the chants of hymns. Therefore, the building of sheds upon these altars on the columns specially built and well decorated is a rule. Stairs are also to be made.