Our New parliament building is here, and many think that it has a triangular shape, However, it’s not. It has 6 corners which makes it hexagonal and adding a little vastu to it makes it gomukh architecture.
First, let us talk about the Hexagonal shape. The hexagonal shape known as the Shatkona in Sanskrit, is also the shape of many Yantra. This shape represents the union of both the male and feminine forms. More specifically it is supposed to represent Purusha (the supreme being), and Prakriti (mother nature, or causal matter). Often this is represented as Shiva – Shakti.
The Shatkona represents the harmonious balance and integration of opposites, such as the divine and material, consciousness and energy, and the transcendent and immanent aspects of reality. It symbolizes the ultimate reality, where the supreme being (Purusha) and mother nature (Prakriti) are united as one.
Additionally, the Anahata chakra is the fourth primary chakra according to Hindu, Shakta, and Buddhist Tantric traditions. The word “Anahata” means “unhurt,” “unstruck,” or “unbeaten” in Sanskrit. It refers to a state of harmony and balance within oneself.
The Anahata chakra is associated with the heart center and is considered the seat of love, compassion, and inner peace. It is symbolized by a lotus with twelve petals giving it a hexagonal shape. The Anahata chakra represents the integration of the physical and spiritual aspects of one’s being, and it is believed to be the center of unconditional love, forgiveness, and emotional well-being.
In yogic and Tantric practices, balancing and opening the Anahata chakra is considered important for overall well-being, as it allows for the flow of love, compassion, and connection with oneself and others. It is seen as a gateway to higher states of consciousness and spiritual awakening.
Gomukh architecture refers to a distinctive feature found in some Hindu temple designs. The term “gaumukh” translates to “cow’s mouth” in Sanskrit, and it describes a unique architectural element in the form of a carved or sculpted cow’s head or mouth from which water flows.
In gomukh architecture, a spout shaped like a cow’s mouth is often positioned at the front or side of a temple structure.
The significance of gomukh architecture is rooted in Hindu belief and symbolism. The cow, or “go” in Sanskrit, holds a sacred and revered status in Hinduism. It is considered a symbol of abundance, fertility, and divinity.
The gomukh architectural feature serves several purposes:
Symbolic Representation: The cow’s mouth spout is seen as a representation of the divine and the life-giving qualities of the cow. It is believed to symbolize the abundance and purity of sacred life-giving elements, such as water.
Aesthetic Appeal: Gaumukh architecture adds a unique and aesthetically pleasing feature to the architechture than any other shape. The intricately carved or sculpted cow’s head or mouth provides an artistic element that adds to the overall beauty of the structure.
Symbolic Connection: The flow of water from the gaumukh is believed to create a connection between the divine realm and the physical world. It is seen as a way to establish a link between devotees and the gods, allowing them to receive blessings and spiritual grace.
Gaumukh architecture is often found in temples dedicated to various deities across different regions in India. Its presence adds to the architectural diversity and spiritual significance of the sacred spaces.
In Hinduism, the triangle shape is indeed a prominent symbol and is associated with various aspects of religious and spiritual significance. There are a few reasons why the triangle shape appears frequently in Hindu architecture and symbolism:
Representation of the Divine Trinity: The triangle is often used to represent the three major deities in Hinduism—Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). This trinity, known as the Trimurti, is considered the fundamental force behind the universe. The triangle shape is used to symbolize their interconnections and the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and destruction.
Symbol of Shakti: The triangle also represents Shakti, the divine feminine energy or power in Hinduism. Shakti is considered the dynamic force that energizes and activates the universe. The upward-pointing triangle (pointing towards the heavens) represents the creative aspect of Shakti, while the downward-pointing triangle (pointing towards the earth) represents the transformative aspect.
The shape of Chakra- Chakras are the mystic power centres in human body along the spine. These chakras are responsible for the flow of energy in our body as per the spiritual belief. These are triangular in shape and it is believed that a person sitting inside a triange can easily connect with the cosmos.
Significance of the number three: The number three holds great significance in Hinduism. It represents various triads and trinities, such as the Trimurti mentioned earlier, the three gunas (modes of nature—sattva, rajas, and tamas), and the three aspects of time—past, present, and future. The triangle shape is used to visually represent these triadic concepts.
Geometric harmony and balance: The triangle is considered a geometrically balanced shape. Its three sides and three angles create stability and harmony, which are desirable qualities in religious and architectural symbolism. The triangle shape is often incorporated into temple structures, sculptures, and mandalas to evoke a sense of order and balance.
Sacred geometry: Hinduism incorporates the concept of sacred geometry, where certain geometric shapes and patterns are believed to have inherent spiritual qualities. The triangle, along with other shapes like the circle and the lotus, is considered sacred and is believed to possess divine attributes. It is used to enhance the spiritual energy and symbolism in religious art and architecture.
