VASTHUSCAPE
Present day Nalukettus
MANOJ S. NAIR
|
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of going for a Nalukettu. And the Vasthu prescriptions for such buildings.
|
ADHERE TO DIMENSION: Vasthu principles have been prescribed for Nalukettus. - Photo: Leju K.
THE UNION of four `Salas' (blocks) "Nalukettu" is one of the most beautiful arrangements for a residential building. The design of a Nalukettu must observe Vasthu principles strictly. Each of the Salas of a Nalukettu must be designed observing the dimensions prescribed for each direction (east, west, north and south). The internal as well as external perimeter must be in the `Dwajayoni' dimension.
The Vasthumandala has to be divided and the Salas need to be located on the `Manushyakhandom' as well as `Devakhandom' only. The `Brahmasthanam' should come on the `Ankanom' (central courtyard) of the Nalukettu. The `Ankanom' can be of a square type or rectangular type according to the design principles adopted.
Inside Nalukettu
While arranging the rooms inside a Nalukettu, the kitchen should come only in the northern or eastern Salas. Bedrooms are better located in the southern and western blocks. The `Madhya Soothras' (centre line) in both directions must pass freely with out any obstruction. A `Mullathara' can be provided in the `Ankanom' at the appropriate place.
The central veranda as well as the `Poomukham' outside can be made more attractive by giving small architectural pillars and trellis. The central courtyard must be kept neat and clean as it is a very auspicious place.
New generation ones
In the case of new generation Nalukettus as against in the traditional type, the roof structure is made of concrete and finishing is done using Mangalore tiles. This reduces the usage of wood and will improve the building's security. The tiles laid over the roof will reduce leakage and control the temperature inside during summer season.
Pros and cons
Like any other object, Nalukettus too have their merits and demerits. One of the most important aspects of a Nalukettu is its ability to bring nature close to man.
One can experience nature from within the house. Temperature and humidity control is also very effective. The ventilation in a Nalukettu system is another advantage. The natural light utilisation in this type of building is also much better than in the other types. The verandas, Poomukhoms, etc. provide a lot of free space for movement. Nalukettus also provide an arena for family get-togethers.
One of the major disadvantages is its security aspect as the centre courtyard is vulnerable to external intrusion. There are chances of dampness inside the building during heavy monsoon as water splashes over in heavy winds. The presence of insects and mosquitoes due to the central courtyard is likely to be much higher compared to other types of building. The effect of thunder and lightning experienced through the central courtyard can be alarming to the inmates. The main disadvantage is privacy, as each and every room is visible to anyone in the courtyard. The area of land required for constructing a Nalukettu is much higher than in the ordinary type of building. The construction cost of these types of building will also be slightly on the higher side.
The author is a consultant engineer with the Vasthuvidya Gurukulam, Aranmula
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Property Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Hyderabad
Kochi
Thiruvananthapuram
