Pancha Bhoothangal

Ashtadhik Balakas are the eight gods ruling the eight quarters or the eight zones of the Universe. They are Indra (east), Agni (southeast), Yama (south), Niruthi (southwest), Varuna (west), Kubera (north), Eesana (northeast) and Vayu (northwest). According to Hinduism, each direction is assigned to a particular god as chief guardian ensuring orderliness of the Universe and the protection of its occupants. Vastu Sastram is based on these eight directions.

The rulers of eight directions are the pillars of Vastu Sastram. Vastu Sastram was important in the past also. But, awareness about it increased in the present-day world. Ashtadhik Balakas have wild animals as their vehicles. Being the vahanas of god, these wild animals also gained importance and were treated with reverence. Holiness is ascribed to the wild animals. This in turn helps us in wildlife conservation.

Eshana - His vahana is bull which is a symbol of strength and utility in agriculture as a draught animal. Indra - His vahana is Iravatham (white elephant) which is a symbol of majesty and strength. Agni - His vahana is a ram which is a symbol of fearlessness and heroism, Kubera - His vahana is a goat which is a source of milk and protein for human beings. Yama - His vahana is a buffalo which has utility value as a draught animal. Niruthi - His vahana is a ghoul which is a human form. Varuna - His vahana is a crocodile which keeps the system clean by eating away all dead creatures. Vayu - His vahana is deer which is a forest dweller and has graceful and swift movements.