Sawai Jai Singh II: Jantar Mantar Observatories
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II established five astronomical observatories called Jantar Mantars in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura. These massive stone instruments were used to predict planetary movements and the passage of time.
Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2007
Evidence Source
Link ↗Jai Singh II established observatories at which sites?
1. Delhi
2. Jaipur
3. Ujjain
4. Varanasi
[UPPCS Mains 2007]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
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.
Authentic Source Evidence
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.Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What is the meaning of 'Jantar Mantar'?"
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"Jai Singh II’s observatories represent a bridge between traditional Indian astronomical knowledge and global scientific inquiry in the 18th century."
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