Is Keeping Departed Soul Photos in the House According to Vastu Valid?

The practice of incorporating departed soul photos into home decor is deeply rooted in many cultures, including Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural science that focuses on creating harmony and positive energy within living spaces. However, the appropriateness of displaying such photos can be a matter of personal belief and interpretation.

Beliefs in Vastu Shastra

In Vastu Shastra, specific guidelines are provided for the placement of objects and images within a home to promote harmony and positive energy. Regarding departed soul photos, many practitioners advise against keeping such images in the living areas of the house for several reasons:

Negative Energy

According to Vastu, keeping photos of the deceased can attract negative energy or sadness into the home. This belief suggests that the presence of such images might bring a sense of mourning and melancholy into the living space, detracting from the positive and uplifting environment that is ideal for the well-being of the living.

Focus on the Living

The philosophy of Vastu emphasizes the importance of creating a space that fosters positivity and growth for the living members of the household. Keeping photos of the departed souls in common living areas may be seen as diverting attention away from the focus on the living, thereby diluting the positive energy that is intended to be cultivated.

Placement

Even if one chooses to keep such photos, it is often recommended to place them in a separate, more private area such as a personal shrine or a dedicated room rather than in the common living spaces. This move can help maintain the balance of positive and negative energies within the home.

Respect and Memory

While Vastu offers specific guidance, many individuals hold sentimental value in keeping photos of loved ones who have passed away. The emotional connection and respect for the departed can sometimes be more significant than the strict adherence to Vastu principles. These photos may serve as a means of remembrance and a personal tribute.

Practical Considerations

The decision to keep or not to keep departed soul photos in the house is a personal one, influenced by individual beliefs and preferences. If Vastu principles resonate with you, you may consider following their suggestions. However, if personal sentiment holds significant value, placing these photos in a more secluded area may strike a balance between honoring the deceased and maintaining a positive living environment.

Dispelling Misconceptions

There are some misconceptions and practices that have been rebutted by Vastu experts:

Adverse Effects

Some people believe that displaying pictures of the dead in the house can adversely affect the health, peace, and prosperity of the residents. While this belief is rooted in various cultural practices, it is important to note that there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Instead, it is often a matter of personal belief and experience.

Experimenting with the absence of such images can provide a sense of personal validation. Removing large pictures of deceased individuals from the walls of a house and observing any changes over a week can offer insights into personal perceptions of their presence.

Hindu Scriptures and Vastu

Some sources argue that the practice of hanging framed photos of deceased ancestors started with the advent of photography and the influence of Bollywood. Furthermore, it is important to note that there are no explicit mentions in Hindu scriptures that prescribe or prohibit the hanging of deceased family photos. These practices are often a blend of cultural traditions and personal sentiment.

Proper Placement

For those who wish to honor their ancestors while following Vastu principles, proper placement is key. According to recommendations:

Hanging the deceased ancestors' photographs in a southerly direction facing north. Orienting the images in a west-to-east manner.

Additionally, memorial photographs should be kept on the south wall. If hanging on the south wall is not possible, they can be placed on the west wall instead.

Conclusion

The topic of keeping departed soul photos in the house is multifaceted and subjective. While Vastu Shastra provides a set of guidelines, personal beliefs and sentimental attachments often play a significant role. Ultimately, the well-being and comfort of the household members should be the deciding factor in the placement of such photos.