The Shulbasutras of Baudhayana, Apastamba, Katyayana and Manava: With Text, English Translation and Commentary c8.t10.2

c8.t10.2

**12.1-12.6.** The kite-shaped fire-altar (*kaṅkacit*) is constructed in the same manner as the *śyenacit*. The areas and shapes of the body and the tail are the same as those of the second type of the falcon with curved wings and extended tail. The area of the body is, therefore, 52 *pañcamīs* or sq. *aratnis* and of the tail 15 *pañcamīs*. The measure of the head is given as 5 *pañcamīs* and that of the two wings 2 × 57 or 114 *pañcamīs*. These areas total 186 *pañcamīs* or sq. *aratnis*, leaving a deficit of 1½ *pañcamīs*, as the total area of the fire-altar is 187½ *pañcamīs* (= 7½ sq. *pu.*) This balance area of 1½ *pañcamīs*, which is nothing but 1 *adhyardhāpañcamī* (24 × 36 sq. *ang.*) is utilized in making the feet of the bird. The bending of the wing and the plumages are also slightly different from those of the *śyenacit*, 2nd type. The constructions are shown in Fig. 45.