Lord Buddha, born as Siddhartha Gautama around 563 BCE in Lumbini, was a spiritual teacher whose profound insights transformed humanity’s understanding of suffering and liberation. Born a prince, he lived a life of luxury until the age of 29, when he encountered the Four Sights—an old man, a sick person, a corpse, and an ascetic. These encounters awakened him to the realities of suffering (dukkha) and the impermanence of life. Determined to find a solution, he renounced his privileged life and embarked on a spiritual quest.
After years of rigorous asceticism and meditation, Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, becoming the Buddha, “The Enlightened One.” During his enlightenment, he realized the Four Noble Truths – the universality of suffering, its origins, the possibility of its cessation, and the path leading to liberation. This path, known as the Noble Eightfold Path, is at the heart of Buddha’s teachings.
The Noble Eightfold Path provides a practical framework for ethical living, mental discipline, and wisdom, guiding practitioners toward the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. It consists of eight interconnected practices that cultivate a balanced and harmonious life. Beginning with Right Understanding, the path emphasizes recognizing the Four Noble Truths, which form the foundation for the journey toward liberation.
Right Intention follows, encouraging thoughts of goodwill and renunciation while rejecting ill-will and attachment. Right Speech and Right Action focus on ethical conduct, emphasizing truthfulness, kindness, and non-harmful living. Right Livelihood ensures that one’s way of earning does not harm others or hinder spiritual growth. The latter stages of the path involve mental discipline. Right Effort encourages the cultivation of positive mental states and the elimination of harmful habits. Right Mindfulness nurtures awareness and clarity in every moment, and Right Concentration deepens meditation, allowing the mind to focus and gain profound insight. Together, these practices serve as a holistic guide to leading a life that is ethical, disciplined, and rooted in wisdom, ultimately leading to freedom from suffering and the attainment of Nirvana.
In Buddhism, Stupas are sacred monuments that symbolize the Buddha’s teachings, life, and enlightenment. Derived from the Sanskrit word “stupa,” meaning “heap” or “mound,” they originated as simple earthen mounds constructed over the remains of revered individuals, particularly the Buddha. Initially, these mounds marked sacred sites where the Buddha’s relics were enshrined, serving as focal points for devotion and meditation. The tradition of constructing stupas began around the 3rd century BCE, during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, who played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism across the Indian subcontinent. Ashoka’s influence led to the construction of numerous stupas, many of which became major pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. These stupas are not merely architectural structures but also serve as symbols of the Buddha’s teachings, representing the path to enlightenment and the preservation of his relics. Today, stupas continue to be important places of worship, meditation, and reflection for Buddhists worldwide.
Over time, stupas evolved from basic earthen mounds into more intricate architectural structures. They began incorporating key elements such as a dome, spire, and steps, each symbolizing different aspects of the Buddha’s life and teachings. The hemispherical dome (Anda) represents the infinite wisdom of the Buddha, while the square base (Harmika) symbolizes his throne and the grounding element of earth. Above, the central spire (Yasti) connects heaven and earth, embodying the axis mundi—the cosmic axis that links the spiritual and physical realms. The umbrella-like finial (Chatra) stands as a symbol of the protection of spiritual teachings, and the circular pathways (Pradakshina Patha) are designed for circumambulation, allowing devotees to meditate and reflect on the Buddha’s path.
In regions like Gandhara, the design of stupas also incorporated influences from Greco-Roman architectural styles, seen in elements such as columns and detailed sculptures. This cultural exchange is evident in significant structures like the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, which, while not a stupa in the traditional sense, integrates similar symbolic and architectural principles. Built around the 5th century CE, the Mahabodhi Temple commemorates the Buddha’s enlightenment under the sacred Bodhi Tree and stands as one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist structures in the world.
Having delved into the symbolic significance and architectural evolution of stupas, it is essential to explore the different types of stupas, which can be classified both by their functional purposes and the significant events they commemorate in the life of the Buddha. These classifications deepen our understanding of how stupas serve not only as architectural monuments but also as profound tools for meditation, devotion, and spiritual growth. The diverse roles that stupas play in Buddhist practice reflect the dynamic relationship between physical structures and their symbolic meanings, which continue to guide followers in their journey toward enlightenment.
The functional types of stupas serve various practical and symbolic purposes. Relic stupas are the most sacred, as they house the relics of the Buddha or other revered saints. These stupas are seen as embodiments of the Buddha’s presence, and their construction serves as a way to honour his physical remains. Object stupas, on the other hand, are built to house sacred objects related to the Buddha’s life, such as his robes, bowl, or important scriptures. These stupas act as physical reminders of the Buddha’s teachings and actions. Commemorative stupas are established to mark significant events in the Buddha’s life, such as his birth, enlightenment, or death. These stupas preserve the memory of these milestones and allow for continued adoration. Symbolic stupas represent deeper theological concepts within Buddhism, such as the Three Worlds (Dhatu) or the stages a Bodhisattva must pass through to attain enlightenment. Lastly, Votive stupas are built by devotees as an offering or prayer, often to gain spiritual merit or blessings. These stupas reflect the devotee’s wish for purification, protection, or spiritual advancement.
In addition to these functional classifications, stupas are also closely associated with eight significant events in the life of the Buddha, each commemorated by a specific type of stupa. The Lotus Blossom Stupa symbolizes his birth, with lotuses blooming under his feet. The Enlightenment Stupa commemorates his awakening under the Bodhi tree. The Stupa of Many Doors marks his first teachings at Deer Park. The Stupa of Descent from the God Realm celebrates his descent from Tuṣita Heaven to teach his mother. The Stupa of Great Miracles honours his miracles performed at age 50. The Stupa of Reconciliation represents his resolution of a dispute within the Sangha, promoting peace and harmony among his followers. The Stupa of Complete Victory signifies his victory over Mara and life extension. Finally, the Stupa of Nirvana symbolizes his death, marking his ultimate liberation and enlightenment.
These eight stupas, each representing a different phase in the Buddha’s life, serve as physical incarnations of his journey toward enlightenment. Combined with the functional stupas, they prove the diverse ways in which stupas can encapsulate both the teachings and milestones of the Buddha’s path, offering devotees a means to reflect on his life and teachings while extending their spiritual practice. The spiritual connection between the eight great stupas and Vastu Shastra lies in their alignment with the cardinal and intercardinal directions, each embodying a distinct phase of Buddha’s life and teachings. These stupas form a symbolic map of Buddha’s journey, where each structure not only marks a milestone in his path to enlightenment but also serves as a conduit for spiritual energy, perfectly aligning with the cosmic principles of Vastu.
The Lotus Blossom Stupa, aligned with the East, represents Buddha’s birth and symbolizes new beginnings and spiritual awakening. Its structure is typically circular, with a lotus motif at its core, signifying the purity of the Buddha’s teachings. The lotus petals symbolize the unfolding of wisdom and compassion, as the Buddha took seven steps in each direction upon his birth, with lotuses blooming beneath his feet. Just as the sun rises daily in the East, bringing new beginnings, the direction governed by Surya Devta as per Vastu Shastra, the stupa’s alignment emphasizes renewal, enlightenment, and the promise of spiritual growth.
The Enlightenment Stupa, aligned with the Northeast, commemorates Buddha’s enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, symbolizing wisdom and spiritual growth. In Vastu Shastra, the Northeast is considered the most auspicious direction, associated with qualities such as new ideas, focused attention, meditation, motivation (prerna), clarity, wisdom, and spiritual belief. It is also linked to the growth of generations, the conception of knowledge, and the fostering of higher consciousness. The stupa’s tall, spire-like structure represents Buddha’s upward journey toward enlightenment, reaching toward the heavens and embodying the connection between the earthly and spiritual realms. This alignment amplifies the stupa’s role in nurturing spiritual clarity, inner wisdom, and the eternal quest for truth and enlightenment.
The Stupa of Many Doors, aligned with the North, marks Buddha’s first teaching at Deer Park in Sarnath, symbolizing the opening of wisdom and the path to liberation. In Vastu Shastra, the North is associated with progress, treasure (khajana), consistent flow, and the spreading of knowledge. It is also linked to communication skills, balance of mind, financial stability, and the flow of opportunities. The stupa’s structure, often featuring multiple entrances or gates, reflects the accessibility and inclusivity of the Buddha’s teachings, welcoming all beings to the path of enlightenment. Just as the North invites a steady flow of abundance and opportunities, the stupa symbolizes the expansive reach of the Dharma, fostering wisdom, balance, and the continuous flow of spiritual and material well-being.
The Stupa of Descent, positioned in the Northwest, signifies Buddha’s compassionate return from Tuṣita Heaven to teach humanity. This direction, as per Vastu Shastra, is traditionally associated with support, collection power, and moral strength. It embodies the energy needed to gather resources and channel them toward higher purposes. The stupa’s design often features an elevated or tiered structure, symbolizing the movement between celestial and earthly realms and reflecting Buddha’s descent to share the Dharma with his mother and other celestial beings. The Northwest’s association with support emphasizes the nurturing and guiding nature of this event, reinforcing the idea of moral and spiritual strength provided by this direction. By aligning with these qualities, the stupa serves as a reminder of Buddha’s guidance and the spiritual resources needed to connect divine wisdom with earthly existence, fostering the strength to fulfill one’s higher purpose.
The Stupa of Great Miracles, aligned with the West, commemorates the miraculous acts performed by the Buddha at the age of 50, showcasing his mastery over both the material and spiritual realms. In Vastu Shastra, the West is a direction associated with life, power, stamina, gains, profit, and expansion. It symbolizes perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges while guiding individuals toward positive actions and growth. The stupa’s structure is often ornate, adorned with intricate carvings and dynamic layers that reflect the awe-inspiring nature of Buddha’s miracles. This alignment with the West reinforces the energy of empowerment, reminding practitioners of the Buddha’s strength and the transformative potential of good deeds. The stupa serves as an enduring symbol of expansion and the cultivation of inner power, inspiring individuals to embrace spiritual growth and achieve balance in both worldly and transcendent pursuits.
The Stupa of Reconciliation, aligned with the Southwest, commemorates the Buddha’s role in resolving disputes within the monastic community, fostering harmony and stability. In Vastu Shastra, the Southwest is associated with stability, solidity, perfection, and the nurturing of relationships and talents (hastkala). This direction embodies the strength and resilience required to maintain balance and unity in challenging situations. The stupa’s design often features a stabilizing central pillar or a solid base, symbolizing the firm foundation and balance that Buddha brought to the Sangha. Its structure reflects the peace and unity achieved through reconciliation, highlighting Buddha’s wisdom and compassion in restoring order and harmony. Aligned with the Southwest’s energy, the stupa represents the cultivation of harmonious relationships, inner strength, and the solid groundwork essential for spiritual growth and communal unity. It serves as a timeless reminder of the power of reconciliation and the strength derived from fostering stable and nurturing connections.
The Stupa of Complete Victory, aligned with the South, symbolizes Buddha’s victory over Mara, the embodiment of delusion and death, marking his triumph over worldly temptations and the cycle of rebirth. In Vastu Shastra, the South is associated with fame, vitality, energy, and the culmination of achievements. It represents the strength and recognition that come with success, as well as the peaceful relaxation that follows after triumph. The stupa’s design often features a strong, tiered structure, signifying the power, vitality, and resilience of Buddha’s victory. This architectural form emphasizes strength and the spiritual prowess that enabled the Buddha to overcome Mara’s forces, resonating with the South’s energy of success, recognition, and ultimate peace. The stupa serves as a reminder of Buddha’s ability to transcend worldly illusions and attain ultimate liberation, reflecting the peace and fame that come from spiritual victory and the fulfillment of one’s higher purpose.
The Stupa of Nirvana, positioned in the Southeast, marks Buddha’s parinirvana and ultimate liberation, symbolizing the cessation of suffering and the completion of his earthly journey. In Vastu Shastra, the Southeast is associated with action, energy, transformation, and the initial stage of fire, representing beginnings and intense change. This direction signifies the energy of initiation, vitality, and the transformative power of the final stages of life and enlightenment.
The bell-shaped structure of the stupa reflects the profound transformation at the moment of Buddha’s enlightenment and his final entry into Nirvana. The bell shape is significant, symbolizing awakening and the cessation of suffering. Just as a bell’s sound resonates and awakens those nearby, the bell shape of the stupa serves as a symbol of Buddha’s spiritual awakening and the clarity of his final teachings. The Southeast’s energy of action and transformation aligns with the profound shift Buddha experienced in his final moments, marking the realization of liberation and the beginning of eternal peace. It embodies the culmination of his journey and the birth of a new, boundless state of wisdom and serenity.
After delving into the Stupa of Nirvana, we now turn to the Sanchi Stupa and its surrounding stupas, which form an intricate alignment reflecting the cosmic energy principles of Vastu Shastra. This spiritual network, with the Great Stupa of Sanchi at its core, extends into the surrounding landscape, where each stupa is aligned with distinct cosmic energies. While the eight symbolic classifications of stupas encapsulate key moments in Buddha’s life, the actual alignment of the stupas at Sanchi reflects these spiritual teachings through their geographical positioning and directional significance.
At the heart of this sacred arrangement lies the Great Stupa of Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh, India. This ancient Buddhist structure, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, is a remarkable example of early Buddhist architecture and continues to stand as a testament to the rich historical and spiritual legacy of Buddhism. Through its design, the Sanchi Stupa not only serves as a place of worship but also as a reflection of the deeper cosmic principles that guide the universe, offering a profound connection between the earthly and the divine.
Surrounding Sanchi, other stupas extend outward in the eight cardinal and intercardinal directions: Bhojpur and Andher Stupas in the Southeast, Saru Maru in the South, Sonari in the Southwest, Satdhara in the West, Bharhut in the East, and The Relic Stupas of Sariputta and Moggallana in the Northeast. Each of these stupas serves as a spiritual node, connecting the sacred geography to the principles of Vastu Shastra.
Although these stupas were not designed to physically represent the symbolic eight, their strategic placement holds deep significance. The central placement of the Sanchi Stupa reflects its importance as a spiritual axis, akin to the Brahmasthana in Vastu Shastra, the centre of energy in a space. Just as the Brahmasthana is where energy emanates and flows, the Sanchi Stupa serves as the core that grounds and harmonizes the cosmic energies of the surrounding stupas. Each stupa’s location aligns with distinct cosmic energies in Vastu Shastra, reinforcing the interplay between spirituality and spatial harmony.
This arrangement underscores the brilliance of ancient Indian architects and their ability to harmonize the physical and metaphysical. The Sanchi Stupa and its surrounding network form a spiritual mandala, where each stupa contributes to the overarching narrative of enlightenment, harmony, and cosmic connection—a testament to the timeless synergy of Buddhist philosophy and Vastu principles.
Having explored the spiritual connection between the eight stupas and Vastu Shastra, we now turn to the Mahabodhi Temple of Bodh Gaya. While not a stupa in its traditional sense, the temple embodies a similar spiritual essence, deeply rooted in cosmic principles aligned with Vastu Shastra. Unlike the commemorative nature of stupas, the Mahabodhi Temple represents the zenith of Siddhartha Gautama’s journey to enlightenment, harmonizing Buddhist philosophy with spatial energy principles. The Mahabodhi Temple is a profound fusion of architectural brilliance, spiritual symbolism, and the principles of Vastu Shastra, creating a harmonious environment that resonates with the balance of the five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) as outlined in Vastu. These five elements—Earth(Prithvi), Water (Jal), Fire(Agni), Air(Vayu), and Space(Akasha)—are carefully balanced in the temple’s design to enhance its spiritual energy and create a peaceful, enlightened atmosphere.
The temple’s towering pyramidal spire, reaching an impressive 55 meters toward the sky, embodies the space element, symbolizing the vastness of the cosmos and the divine connection between the earthly and the celestial. The sharpness of the spire also reflects the fire element, representing energy, transformation, and spiritual ascent, guiding devotees on a path of enlightenment. Constructed with an interlocking brick system, the temple’s stability is rooted in the earth element, symbolizing strength, permanence, and firmness. Surrounding the temple, the greenery enhances the air element, bringing vitality and freshness to the sacred space, while the presence of butter lamps within the temple emphasizes the fire element, illuminating the spiritual journey and purifying the surroundings.
The nearby pond and river align with the water element, symbolizing purity, adaptability, and nourishment, further enriching the temple’s spiritually uplifting ambiance. The surrounding railings, adorned with intricate carvings, amplify this sacred energy. The earlier railings, depicting deities such as Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Surya, the sun god, evoke divine blessings and celestial energy. In contrast, the later Gupta-period railings, with motifs of stupas, Garuda, and lotus flowers, symbolize the Buddhist focus on relic worship and reinforce the sacredness of the Mahabodhi Temple as a site of pilgrimage and enlightenment.
The descendant of the original Bodhi Tree at the Mahabodhi Temple is a central symbol of Siddhartha Gautama’s enlightenment, revered as a living link to his awakening. It serves as a focal point for worship, rituals, and festivities, embodying spiritual transformation. According to Buddhist tradition, the tree marks the spot where the Buddha meditated for six weeks, symbolizing the power of spiritual practices. Its shade offers a space for contemplation, while in Vastu Shastra, the Bodhi Tree promotes spiritual growth and harmony, enhancing the sacred atmosphere of the temple.
The prayer wheels at the Mahabodhi Temple symbolize key aspects of Buddhist practice, such as the cultivation of compassion, the generation of positive karma, and the accumulation of spiritual merit. Inscribed with sacred mantras like “Om Mani Padme Hum,” turning the prayer wheels engages devotees in prayerful contemplation, invoking blessings for themselves and others. In Mahayana Buddhism, this practice is believed to enhance spiritual progress on the path to enlightenment. Prayer wheels, through their rhythmic movement, also influence the flow of energy, aligning with the principles of energy balance in both Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui. The dynamic interaction with the prayer wheels fosters positive energy and spiritual vitality within the temple’s sacred space.
The Northeast direction, known for its association with positivity, purity, and spiritual growth, plays a crucial role in Vastu Shastra. When a property features a water element, such as a pond, in the Southwest, it serves as a complementary balance to the Northeast. The steady Mucalinda Pond in the Southwest of the Mahabodhi Temple aligns with the Earth element, symbolizing stability, grounding, and solidity. While Water is typically associated with the North and Northeast directions, placing it in the Southwest can harmonize the flow of energy, creating a balanced environment. This interplay between elements—Water in the Southwest and Earth in the Northeast—promotes a cohesive energy flow, ensuring a spiritually enriched and harmonious space. By positioning the steady pond in the Southwest, the Mahabodhi Temple benefits from the balancing qualities of both the Earth and Water elements, fostering a nurturing and stable atmosphere.
The Mahabodhi Temple complex includes the main temple and six sacred sites, each marking a key event in Lord Buddha’s enlightenment journey. These sites symbolize the six weeks of intense meditation that led Buddha to his ultimate awakening. The Bodhi Tree represents the moment of enlightenment, while the Animeshlocha Stupa signifies unwavering focus. The Ratnachakrama marks Buddha’s meditative walk, and the Ratnaghar Chaitya symbolizes stillness and peace. The Mucalinda Pond reflects Buddha’s solace from a storm, and the Ajapala Nigrodha Tree represents renewal after deep meditation. Together, these sites embody the stages of Buddha’s path to enlightenment.
In summary, the Mahabodhi Temple holds immense cultural and religious significance as the site where Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, attained enlightenment, drawing pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Its Northern orientation, as per Vastu Shastra, may contribute to the higher footfall, however the temple’s spiritual importance remains the primary draw. Beyond its historical and religious value, the temple exemplifies Vastu Shastra’s timeless wisdom, blending spiritual practices with architectural mastery. It offers visitors a sense of balance, harmony, and connection to cosmic principles, symbolized through the stupas and their deeper spiritual meaning.
Bridging these sacred structures with deeper cosmic meanings, the symbolism of the number 8 emerges as a unifying thread between Buddhism and Vastu Shastra. The number 8, revered in both traditions, signifies infinity and the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth, culminating in spiritual liberation. In Vastu Shastra, the eight cardinal and intercardinal directions govern essential aspects of life—prosperity, relationships, career, health, and spiritual growth—ensuring a holistic and balanced existence. Similarly, the Noble Eightfold Path in Buddhism provides a framework for achieving enlightenment, creating a striking parallel to the harmonious energy flow that Vastu seeks to cultivate.
From a Vedic perspective, the number 8 holds additional significance. It is considered an auspicious number in Vedic astrology and numerology, symbolizing material success, abundance, and spiritual growth. In the Vedic tradition, the number 8 is associated with the Ashtakshara Mantra, a sacred sound or vibration that is believed to invoke divine protection and blessings. The number is also linked to the concept of Ashta Siddhis (eight divine powers) that one may attain through spiritual practice, representing a journey toward divine enlightenment and self-realization. This profound connection between the number 8 in Vastu, Buddhism, and Vedic teachings enhances its role as a symbol of unity, balance, and the infinite cycle of existence.
This interplay of principles underscores the profound alignment between cosmic and spiritual energies, offering individuals a pathway to spiritual awakening and well-being. Moreover, Vastu attributes each of these eight directions to a specific Devta, whose unique energies further enhance the spiritual and practical significance of spaces. Through this alignment, whether in the form of stupas, temples, or our own living environments, the infinite potential for harmony and enlightenment is harnessed, blending timeless wisdom with practical application.
In conclusion, the eight great stupas, each marking a significant moment in Buddha’s life, align with the principles of Vastu Shastra, balancing cosmic energies and enhancing spiritual harmony. The number 8, symbolizing Buddha’s path to enlightenment, also represents completeness and spiritual awakening. The Mahabodhi Temple embodies these same Vastu principles, optimizing energy flow to symbolize Buddha’s enlightenment. Vastu Shastra enhances the connection between physical space and spiritual growth, ensuring harmony in the temple’s space and fostering balance and peace. Together, the stupas and the Mahabodhi Temple serve as powerful reminders of how Vastu principles guide both the environment and the path toward enlightenment.
Dr Dinesh Soni
Guest Author