Ved Shala, Astronomical observatory in Ujjain, India
The Ved Shala is an astronomical observation site in Ujjain equipped with thirteen instruments of various sizes and shapes. These tools measure time, track celestial bodies, and determine astronomical positions throughout the year.
Maharaja Jai Singh II built this observation site in 1725 as one of five similar facilities across northern India. It arose during a period when such centers of astronomical observation held great importance for rulers.
The site served as the center of Indian timekeeping, giving Ujjain a role similar to Greenwich in ancient astronomy. The instruments here reflect how precisely observers once worked and how much they valued exact measurements.
The site is accessible during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset and can be visited without special preparation. Local guides explain how each instrument works and help visitors understand the astronomical concepts behind them.
Some instruments here are specifically designed to measure the declination of celestial bodies, a capability early astronomers needed. These devices demonstrate technical knowledge that was impressive for that era.
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