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R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2007

Pre-Modern Indian Science

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The book 'Jiz Muhammad Shahi' related to knowledge of Astrology produced in 1773 is written by:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept In the 18th century, Sawai Jai Singh II revitalized Indian observational astronomy by combining traditional Vedic knowledge with contemporary Islamic (Zij) and European data.

Explanation Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur authored the Jiz Muhammad Shahi (named after the Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah). It is a set of astronomical tables used for predicting planetary positions.

Logical Breakup
Option C is Correct: Jai Singh was a renowned scientist-king who also built the Jantar Mantar observatories across North India.
Term: 'Jiz' (or Zij) refers to the technical tables that were the state-of-the-art tools for astronomy and time-keeping.

Active Recall

Question

What was the purpose of building Jantar Mantars?

Answer

To create precise, large-scale instruments that could correct existing errors in astronomical calendars and tables.

Core Insight

Jai Singh's work represents the last great indigenous push in Indian observational astronomy before the adoption of modern telescopes.

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