Science in 18th Century India

Previous Year Questions Analysis

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The book 'Jiz Muhammad Shahi', related to astrology and produced in 1733, was written by:

[R.A.S./R.T.S. Pre 2007]

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Correct Option: C

The book 'Jiz Muhammad Shahi' was written by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur in 1733. It contains a set of highly accurate astronomical tables used for astronomical and astrological calculations.

A. Darbar Jaswant Singh of Jodhpur
B. Raja Bharmal of Amber
C. Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur
D. Maharana Amar Singh of Udaipur

Analysis & Evidence

Concept


Sawai Jai Singh II was a unique polymath among Indian royalty. He was dissatisfied with existing astronomical tables and sought to create more accurate data for calendars and astrological predictions.

Authentic Source Evidence


Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur wrote the book 'Jiz Muhammad Shahi' (completed around 1733). It is a comprehensive set of astronomical tables dedicated to the Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah. 'Jiz' is a generic term for books that tabulate the positions of stars and planets for calculations.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Jai Singh was a scientific visionary who also built the Jantar Mantar observatories to verify the data he compiled in this book.

  • Logic 2: The work combined traditional Indian astronomy with contemporary Islamic and European observations available to him.
  • Historical Logic Quest

    "Why did Jai Singh build the Jantar Mantars?"

    He found that brass instruments were inaccurate over time and built massive stone instruments to provide more stable and precise data for his 'Jiz'.

    The Topper's Edge

    "Jiz Muhammad Shahi represents a high point of scientific inquiry in India during a time of great political instability."

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