A Study on Inch the Method of "Unit" Measurement in Sanskrit Architecture

Abstract

Eastern Sanskrit architecture is accepted as a comprehensive science in the field of construction. As a result, it has been in existence uninterruptedly for a long time. Sanskrit can be considered as a main source of knowledge in architecture. In a piece of construction, almost all data is established according to "unit" measurements. Hence, the knowledge in measuring of "units" is quite essential for the study of Sanskrit architecture. There is a huge discrepancy in the expression of an inch defined in Sanskrit architecture compared to that of western architecture. Identifying those features has led to the development of modern architecture. Here, the experimental issue is whether an inch mentioned in the Sanskrit architecture could be calculated as an exact value. In sources of Sanskrit architecture, there are several definitions for an "inch". Still, it is not being mentioned as a definite value. Further, these are different names for an inch depending on its value. It has been categorized in three ways, namely: Maheśvara,Viṣṇu and Brahma. In Sanskrit architecture, an inch is varying according to the person. The source of Sanskrit architecture defines an inch or a lesser unit than an inch in a varying manner, and not considered as a specific value when you look at a glance. An inch the unit measurement is considered to be equivalent to the volume of eight grains called yava or is defined as the middle portion of the middle finger of a person. This is ample evidence or a confirmation to the variation of the value of an unit as has been mentioned earlier. On the contrary, in western architecture, an inch is defined as an exact value. Its value is 25mm/2.5cm. Whether such a value could be represented as an inch in Sanskrit architecture is subject to experimentation. In here it is expected to ascertain and confirmed this matter