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U.P. P.C.S. (Mains) 2007

Historical Science and Architecture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Where were the observatories constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh-II? 1. Delhi 2. Jaipur 3. Ujjain 4. Varanasi Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The Jantar Mantars represent the peak of pre-telescopic astronomical architecture in India, combining mathematical precision with monumental scale.

Explanation Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur constructed five astronomical observatories in the early 18th century. These are located in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura. These sites were equipped with massive masonry instruments like the Samrat Yantra for measuring time and solar positions.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Jai Singh II sought to improve existing astronomical tables, leading to the creation of 'instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens'.
Logic 2: While Jaipur's Jantar Mantar is the largest and best-preserved, Delhi's was the first to be constructed.

Active Recall

Question

What was the primary purpose of the Jantar Mantar structures?

Answer

To compile accurate astronomical tables (Zij) and predict the movements of celestial bodies without using small metal instruments.

Core Insight

Jai Singh’s choice of massive masonry over small metal instruments was a deliberate effort to achieve higher accuracy by avoiding the structural instability of large metal parts.

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