‘Come, Let Us Ascend to the Heavens’: The Jantar Mantar at Jaipur and the Politics of Scientific Architecture

Jantar Mantar, the world's largest sun dial and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jaipur, India, stands as a testament to the fusion of scientific innovation and architectural grandeur during the 18th century. This study reveals that Jai Singh II's astronomical observatory was not merely an instrument for celestial observation but also a symbol of cosmopolitanism and cultural exchange, blending religious and scientific significance. Historians of architecture have recently highlighted how the observatory's design reflects broader urban planning in Jaipur, offering new insights into its iconic status. The research approach combines historical analysis with architectural examination, situating Jantar Mantar within its larger cultural context to underscore its enduring appeal and political dimensions.

Raina, D. (2025). ‘Come, Let Us Ascend to the Heavens’: The Jantar Mantar at Jaipur and the Politics of Scientific Architecture. Palimpsests of Religious Encounter in Asia, 1500–1800, 141–166. https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004522756_006