Section Article

EXPLORATION OF ANCIENT LITERATURE REGARDING SHELTERS AND MODERN URBAN HOUSING: LESSONS AND CONTEMPORARY IMPLICATIONS
Author(s): Vijendra Singh

Abstract
Housing has been an essential component of human civilization reflecting socio-cultural economic and environmental contexts across centuries. Ancient literature including treatises architectural manuscripts and historical records provides critical insights into traditional shelter design spatial planning material usage and socio-cultural norms associated with habitation. This paper examines these insights and explores their relevance to contemporary urban housing challenges including density sustainability affordability and resilience. Drawing upon scholarly interpretations of ancient texts archaeological evidence and contemporary urban studies the research identifies principles and practices that inform modern housing policies and design strategies. Analysis of ancient Indian texts such as Vastu Shastra Greek and Roman architectural treatises and traditional East Asian housing records demonstrates sophisticated knowledge of climate adaptation social functionality and resource-efficient construction. Modern urban housing facing challenges of population growth urbanization environmental stress and socio-economic inequalities can benefit from integrating these timeless principles with contemporary technology planning and policy interventions. Evidence from 2018–2020 urban studies smart housing research and sustainable building projects highlights the ongoing relevance of ancient wisdom in designing resilient affordable and culturally sensitive urban housing. The paper concludes that bridging ancient architectural knowledge and modern urban planning can enhance housing quality promote sustainable urban development and preserve cultural heritage while addressing contemporary socio-economic and environmental challenges.