Uncovering the Greatness of Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is a testament to Jaipur’s rich heritage, with its origins dating back to the early 18th century. Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Jaipur and a passionate astronomer, undertook the construction of Jantar Mantar between 1724 and 1730. Working in collaboration with skilled workers, astrologers and architects, he established five Jantar Mantar observatories across north Indian states of Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi and Mathura. The primary objective behind establishing these observatories was to compile astronomical tables and accurately predict time based on the movements of the sun, the moon and other celestial bodies.

The Jantar Mantar observatory in Jaipur is the largest, most accurate and best preserved among its counterparts. It features Brihat Samrat Yantra, which is the world’s largest sundial, capable of calculating local time with an accuracy of up to two seconds. This yantra is used to calculate several important astronomical parameters, including local time, meridian pass time, zenith distance, declination and altitude of heavenly bodies. Jantar Mantar complex also includes several other instruments, such as Laghu Samrat Yantra, Jai Prakash Yantra, Yantra Raj, Narivalya and Rama Yantra.

Our visit to Jantar Mantar served as a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving our heritage. Despite being constructed in the 18th century, the monument stands magnificently to this day, showcasing the legacy of our cultural and scientific achievements. The younger generation must draw inspiration from these historical monuments and use them as a catalyst for innovative thinking and revolutionary inventions.

Writen By Ansh Gaur, Miraya Chittkara & Samaira Makkar (The Shriram Millennium School, Noida).

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