Maya, revered as the chief architect of the asuras or demons in Hindu mythology, played a pivotal role in constructing the magnificent palace at Indraprastha for the Pandavas. According to the Mahabharata (Adiparva 228), Maya found refuge with Arjuna and Sri Krishna after Arjuna cleared the Khandavavana forest for Agni, the god of fire, thus saving his life. In gratitude for this act, Maya designed and built the resplendent palace in Indraprastha, which became the new capital for the Pandavas. As further tokens of appreciation, he bestowed upon Bhima a divine gada (mace) and Arjuna the Shankh (conch) Devadatta.
Born as the son of Kashyapa and his third wife Danu, Maya
exhibited a keen interest in architecture from a young age. Through rigorous
austerities and devotion, he attained proficiency in the science of
architecture by appeasing Brahma, the creator. Maya also ruled as the king of
the danavas (demons) for a period, with Hema as his queen. Among his offspring
were the formidable Mayavi and Dundubhi, his sons, and Mandodari, his daughter,
who was married to Ravana of Lanka.
The architectural treatise known as the "Mayamata"
is attributed to Maya, encapsulating the principles and practices of his
esteemed science of architecture. Through his talent, expertise, and divine
connections, Maya left an indelible mark on the world of construction and
design, shaping the landscapes of mythological realms and inspiring generations
with his architectural prowess.