Jaipur in a Glimpse

Sometimes, the simplest things are the most amusing. The architectural and cultural monuments of Sawai Jai Singh II’s reign are marvels so jaw-dropping that even UNESCO has recognized them as World Heritage Sites.

The pink city, Jaipur, the first developed city of India, was designed 300 years ago by one of the greatest rulers, Sawai Jai Singh II. Initially, the 29th Rajput ruler of Amber, he later moved to Jaipur and made it his capital on the advice of astronomers. He was given the title “Sawai” by Aurangzeb when he served as a vassal in the Mughal Empire. Jai Singh II was a commendable and intelligent ruler, so powerful that all the rulers looked up to him, making him the most formidable ruler in North India. He had a great interest in astronomy, mathematics, and architecture. To easily measure time, latitudes, and movement of Zodiac signs he built five Jantar Mantars across India, with the most accurate one located in Jaipur.

The monument consists of several instruments to measure different things using mathematics and astronomy. After numerous models, he came up with a method to create the largest and most accurate sundial, with an accuracy of 2 seconds. Additionally, he built the Sheesh Mahal inside the Amber Fort, which he inherited from his ancestors. This stunning monument is adorned with diamond-like mirrors, imported all the way from Belgium to Iran and then to India.

This trip taught us that not only do marvels catch our eyes but they also highlight our colourful history and culture, uniquely showcasing the life of people 300 years ago. Cheers to Sawai Jai Singh II, because of whom Jaipur stands before our eyes as the pride of India.

Writen By Anushka Mehta, Anshroop Kaur Bedi, Aanya Sharma, Lavanya Chadda (Delhi Public School, Jalandhar).

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