Just Like That | Jantar Mantar: From the science of the stars to the politics of dissent
Built in 1724 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Delhi’s Jantar Mantar evolved from an astronomical observatory into a landmark of protest and political dissent.
Jantar Mantar, a scientific monument in New Delhi, has evolved from a tool for measuring celestial bodies to a platform for public protests. Built in 1724 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, it was commissioned to improve astronomical observations. The monument's five instruments, such as the Samrat Yantra and Jai Prakash Yantra, were designed to enhance accuracy in determining celestial positions and local time.
Despite the rise of telescopes and heliocentric theory in European astronomy, Jai Singh's work focused on refining the tradition of positional astronomy using naked-eye observations and mathematical calculations. Over time, Jantar Mantar became a site for citizens to voice their grievances against the government, especially during large-scale movements like the India Against Corruption campaign led by Anna Hazare in 2011 and anti-Wrestling Federation of India protests in 2023.
However, the monument's status as a designated protest venue was challenged in 2026 when the Delhi Police withdrew its official status, replacing it with other grounds like Ramlila Ground and Burari Ground. The ongoing debate over Jantar Mantar's role as a symbol of dissent raises questions about the truth-seeking process in a democracy.
Written by urgent.news from Hindustan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
