It is a system like our Vaastu Shastra to design buildings for all round happiness in Malayasia. But it does not have any scientific logic or reason like our ancient system. This is mainly practiced by the shamans or witch doctors who are called dukun or bomoh. Literally, Tiang Seri in Malay means the main pillar of the house.

Malayasia has a matriarchal society like in Meghalaya and so the main pillar of the house is called the “mother pillar” or Tiang Ibu. The measurement of the pillar is done by the length of the outstretched arm of the matriarch which is called as one “depa”.

Like the Chinese, Malayasians have eight animals corresponding to eight directions. They are Dragon (naga), Dairy cow (sapi), Lion (singa), Cow (lembu), Elephant (ajah), Dog (anjing), Donkey (keldai) and Crow (gagak). These directions have their own characteristics according to each corresponding animal.

The shamans perform different rituals in selecting the site. They are not very scientific and rather deal with some tantrik activity and beliefs. There is also the custom of wrapping a bit of the soil with white cloth and kept under the matriarch’s pillow at night. If she has a good dream, then the soil is considered to be auspicious otherwise not!

The height of the building is decided by the length of the arm-span of the matriarch or “depa”. Generally the main pillar should be five depas tall. But in practice, there is a variation and there is a lot of significance on this. For example if the height is five and Four tenths depa, the inmates will always argue with each other. A round figure height of five depas will bring good luck and all round happiness. It is a misfortune to have the height of five and one fifth of a depa.

Q & A

Q. I have read your article about rudraksha. I am an advocate and my practice is not very good. Can I wear all the rudrakshas at a time? Where can I get them?

Name withheld

Hemanta Sarmah replies: There are two theories on this. Some say that wearing all types of rudrakshas at one go can give all their benefits together. But some do defer citing the example of one-faced and eight-faced rudrakshas. While Ekmukhi or one-faced rudraksha is ruled by the sun, the eight-mukhi rudraksha is ruled by the saturn. These two planets are not friendly and so they should not be worn together! You should consult an expert on astrology who knows about rudrakshas. You can find several registered dealers of rudraksha on the internet.

Readers may send their queries if any to Hemanta Kr. Sarmah, c/o mélange, The Sentinel or on  Mobile No. 94350-14668. e-mail: hksarmah@yahoo.com