The Maxims of Khona: A Contextual Study of Sustainability over Vernacular Architectural Practice of Bangladesh

Sayed Ahmed and Farid Ahmed

Architecture is not an abrupt phenomenon; rather it was an adoption of creativity throughout the development stages of human being; where humanity finds its relation with greater surroundings. This ‘understanding’ involves observations; range from herbal treatments provided by native fauna, impact of climatic changes in different seasons to the vast imagination of astrology. The maxims related to vernacular architecture, belongs to subaltern astrologer Khona; which reflect human nature in general, suggesting that the composer or composers were intimate to this land and were acquainted with the ways of life here in Bengal. This paper suggests that agriculture, health concern and architecture should ‘response’ to establish a goal for the betterment of mankind, exactly somewhat concerned meticulously by Khona; which can be referred as today’s well-known sustainability. How this same thought was felt by this wise lady over a millennium ago? And surprisingly, why people of this fertile delta bore her legacy by these simple maxims throughout centuries? Thus this practice of thousand years should not be overlooked. The objective of this research is to reveal the truth that the land should be proud to practice its own architecture according to this ancient Wise’s knowledge. In addition, it may try to indicate some possible outlines for both contemporary practice and academic curriculum.