UPPCS Mains 2007

Science and Culture in the 18th Century

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Jai Singh II established observatories at which sites? 1. Delhi 2. Jaipur 3. Ujjain 4. Varanasi

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Sawai Jai Singh II was a rare polymath among Indian royalty. His interest in astronomy led to the construction of massive stone instruments that could track celestial bodies with extreme precision.

Explanation Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II established a total of five astronomical observatories, known as Jantar Mantars. They are located in Delhi (Shahjahanabad), Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura. These sites were built to compile accurate astronomical tables.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The instruments, like the Samrat Yantra, were built of stone and lime to ensure they didn't suffer from the wear and tear of metallic instruments.
Logic 2: While Jaipur is the largest and most famous, all four cities listed in the question hosted these scientific monuments.

Active Recall

Question

What is the meaning of 'Jantar Mantar'?

Answer

It translates to 'instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens,' reflecting their scientific purpose.

Core Insight

Jai Singh II’s observatories represent a bridge between traditional Indian astronomical knowledge and global scientific inquiry in the 18th century.