Each square or zone ( pada ) is assigned to a specific deity. The central zone, the Brahmathana , is kept open to represent infinite space.

One of the most famous and almost science-fictional passages in the Samarangana Sutradhara describes (automata) that could move, dance, play instruments, and serve drinks.

According to legend, King Bhoja was a great patron of learning, arts, and architecture. He wanted to create a definitive manual that would preserve the knowledge of ancient Indian architects ( sutradharas — literally "thread-holders," master builders).