A True Genius: Sawai Jai Singh II

Nowadays, knowing the time has become effortless. With just a quick glance at our smartwatch or phone, we can instantly determine the exact time from our location or any other region. There’s no need to even look at where the watch’s arms are pointing.

However, it wasn’t always this easy to check the time. In the past, professionals were hired to watch a constellation, or people used sundials that showed the time by reflecting the shadow on marble stones. The largest sundial can be found in the Jantar Mantar of Jaipur, which was built by Sawai Jai Singh II. It is known as the Samrat Yantra or the Supreme Instrument, which is 27 metres tall and its shadow moves at a speed of about 1 mm per second. The sundial is inclined at an angle of 27 degrees, which corresponds to the latitude of Jaipur. This angle ensures that the sundial is accurate to within 2 seconds of local time.

Sawai Jai Singh II, an Indian Rajput king who reigned from 1727-43, constructed the Pink City, Jaipur. The city earned its name from the pink-coloured buildings that were painted to welcome guests. Sawai Jai Singh had a keen interest in architecture and astronomy. He ensured the construction of Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, the largest and best-preserved of the five observatories built by him. Its purpose was to provide accurate astronomical measurements and calculations for the benefit of astrologers, astronomers, and other scientists.

Sawai Jai Singh II was renowned for his bravery and intelligence, but his passion for astronomy was unmatched. His interest in the subject began in his childhood, and he pursued it throughout his life. Even in today’s times, his contributions to astronomy are celebrated and revered.

In conclusion, Sawai Jai Singh II had many talents, with astronomy being one of his greatest. He was a true genius whose work we can still appreciate today.

Writen By Deborah Linden, Eloise Scopel & Lucien Benner (German International School Dubai).

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