Vedh Shala or Jantar Mantar is located in the holy city of New Ujjain. It is an observatorybuilt by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1725 which consists of 13 architectural astronomy instruments. The observatory is one of the five observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II when he was governor of UjjainVedh Shala was constructed with the aim of measuring local time, altitude (of the place) and also to measure declination of the Sun, stars and planets and to determine eclipses. Motion, speed and properties of stars and planets were also recorded using several special instruments.
Jai Singh II was also an astronomer and had deep interest in science and astronomy. In early 18th century, he sent his scholars to several countries to study design, construction and technology of the observatories and also the prevalent technology. The scholars returned with their observations and many manuals on astronomy. Subsequently between 1724 and 1737, Jai Singh II had five observatories constructed in Jaipur, Mathura, New Delhi, Ujjain and in Varanasi
Vedh Shala, Ujjain is located on the site of India's first scientific observatory. The picturesque city of Ujjain is considered the Greenwich of India due to the fact that the first meridian of longitude passes through it. Going by the Indian astronomers, the Tropic of Cancer passes through Ujjain. The picturesque Ujjain is an ancient city of central India, in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh, on the eastern bank of the Kshipra River. The must visit places in Ujjain are Chintaman Ganesh, ISKCON Temple, Mahakal Temple, Kaal Bhairav, Triveni (Nav Graha/ Shani), Mangalnaath, Harsidhhi (Durga Temple), Gadh Kalika and Sandipani Ashram. History:
Vedh Shala, Madhya Pradesh was built by Maharaja Jai Singh between 1725 and 1730. Vedh Shala, Ujjain is a masterpiece and an excellent work of art.
Description:
Vedh Shala, Ujjain possesses instruments that are used to determine the locations of heavenly bodies for astrological purposes. The other things available in Vedh Shala in Ujjain in India are a small planetarium and a telescope for the purpose of moon-gazing and observing the planets Mars and Jupiter and their satellites. The Vedh Shala in Ujjain in India is a bit smaller than those in Jaipur and Delhi, but is quite interesting and very much in use. The complete year's astronomical ephemeris in both English and Hindi can be purchased by the astrologers at the observatory for Rs15. The structure of the monument reflects the hard word and superb skill that has gone...
Read moreThe Jantar Mantar in Ujjain is a fascinating window into India's scientific heritage, offering a glimpse into the astronomical prowess of its ancestors. Unlike the temples that dominate Ujjain's landscape, this observatory stands as a testament to the city's historical role as a center of learning and scientific inquiry.
Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in the 18th century, the Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments designed to measure time, track celestial bodies, and decipher the cosmos. These massive structures, built with impressive precision, are a marvel of ancient engineering and a testament to the sophisticated understanding of astronomy in that era.
Walking through the observatory is like stepping into an open-air museum of astronomy. Each instrument has a specific purpose and design: Samrat Yantra: This massive sundial, the largest instrument at the observatory, is used to measure time with remarkable accuracy. Nadivalaya Yantra: This instrument helps determine the local meridian and measure the zenith distance of celestial bodies. Digansha Yantra: Used to measure the azimuth (horizontal angle) of celestial bodies. Other Instruments: The observatory also houses various other instruments like the Shanku Yantra, Rashivalaya Yantra, and more, each serving a unique astronomical purpose.
The Jantar Mantar is not just a collection of ancient structures; it's a living testament to the scientific curiosity and ingenuity of India's past. It's a place where you can connect with the history of astronomy, learn about the movement of celestial bodies, and appreciate the intricate relationship between humans and the cosmos.
Consider taking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the instruments and their functions. Capture the unique beauty and grandeur of the instruments. The Jantar Mantar is located close to other historical sites in Ujjain, making it easy to combine your visit. Early mornings or late afternoons offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor observatory.
The Jantar Mantar in Ujjain is a must-visit for anyone interested in astronomy, history, or science. It's an educational and awe-inspiring experience that offers a unique perspective on India's rich...
Read moreThe architectural marvel Jantar Mantar (also called the Vedh Shala Observatory), established in the 17th century is the oldest to be constructed among the group of five observatories ( Jaipur, Delhi, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi). Maharaja Jai Singh took onto its construction in 1719 to help the Hindu scholars and astrologers with their research and studies. Jantar Mantar, an outcome of great diligence has not only served as the research station to astronomers in the old times but also continues to serve its astronomical as well as tourism purpose even today. Visiting the place would make you learn about the ways by which time, revolutions, and position of celestial bodies were calculated in the bygone age. Everything you see would surely make you think about the richness of king's intelligence. Furthermore, the place is a paradise for stargazers.
The studies of motions and orbits constituted here have bought it the name of 'Yantra Mahal'. It has different yantras such as Samrat Yantra, Sun Dial, Niyati Chakra, etc. The primary purpose behind the construction of Jantar Mantar was to illustrate and compile the data collected by astronomical calculations, the results of which helped in the study of the movement of sun, planets and their moons. Moreover, the observatory in Ujjain is the only observatory where astronomical research is still carried out. Several data including the study of planetary motions get published every year. Jantar Mantar indeed is a work of intelligence which undoubtedly has brought grandeur to the Indian...
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