Vastu-shastra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v1.c16.7

v1.c16.7

Before the actual operation of the foundation laying with the stones begins, ritual altar should be constructed and fulfledged worship to be offered to all these stones and the rewards distributed among the Brāhmaṇas, reciters of Svastika chants, with respects. The offerings are, then made, to the lords of the land, the Vāstu-puruṣa and other spirits. It is after this ritual that the laying begins of all the principal stones as also their sub-varieties (Upaśilās) having the symbols of Prākāra, Svastika, Śrīvatsa and Nandyāvarta in the prescribed directions and corners viz. Nandā in the South East of the site plan and so on. Then are given the Pauranic hymns of the Foundation laying with their Vedic counter-parts. In the end it is indicated, that well-laid foundation stones and pillars should in no case be disturbed otherwise misfortunes may befall man. A well-laid foundation is an augury of the completion of building, be it a temple or a palace or a residential quarter.