Vastu Shastra outlines specific guidelines regarding the direction, location, design, and—crucially—the number of steps when building a house. It is commonly observed that staircases have 5, 8, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, or 29 steps; these counts are considered auspicious in Vastu Shastra. There is a specific Vastu formula governing this; constructing a staircase based on this formula is believed to be highly beneficial for the home.

This concept is referenced in Chapter 30 of the *Manasara* text and Chapter 54 of the *Vishwakarma Prakash*. Let us explore this Vastu formula and understand its significance.

What is the 'Indra, Yama, and Raj' formula?
Vastu calculations identify three stages or categories: Indra, Yama, and Raj. Staircases should be constructed following this sequence. Numbers that leave a remainder of 2 when divided by 3 are considered auspicious. For instance, numbers like 5, 8, and 11 yield a remainder of 2 upon division by 3. Additionally, numbers such as 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, and 29 are also regarded favorably in Vastu.

What do Indra, Yama, and Raj signify?
In Vastu, 'Indra' is associated with prosperity and opulence, 'Yama' with decline or obstruction, and 'Raj' with stability and success. Ancient texts like the *Manasara* and *Vishwakarma Prakash* explain auspiciousness and inauspiciousness by applying this three-stage sequence to the number of steps.

How is the number of steps counted? Generally, when counting the number of steps, the risers—the vertical sections extending from the floor of one level to the floor of the next—are taken into account. The riser leading to the landing is also included in this calculation.

Is having 20 steps inauspicious?
There is a belief that the number of steps should not end in 10, 20, or any figure containing a zero. According to Vastu Shastra, a number ending in zero obstructs the flow of energy and creates stagnation, which can hinder the progress and good fortune of the household members.

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