Jantar Mantar observatory on the path to former glory?

Pre-telescopic astronomical instruments from the 18th century at Jantar Mantar are among the most popular historical marvels of Delhi, but many are not aware of them due to the instruments lying partially functional or dysfunctional.

- Aheli Das

While the observatory may have faded over time, its historical significance has not, as evidenced by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) working with a team of experts to restore some instruments that have lost their accuracy and others that have lost their markings.

At the northern wall of "Misra Yantra" or composite instrument, one of three astronomical pre-telescopic instruments at Jantar Mantar, work is currently underway on the "Karka Rashi Valaya", which roughly translates to "change of seasons", under the first phase of the restoration undertaken by ASI in the last few weeks.

The "Karka Rashi Yantra" consists of an inverted D arch, marking 180 degrees, and a rod-like structure at the top, which acts as a needle and whose shadow helps with calculations. At the bottom is a slab with calibrations for calculation, which will be replaced with marble and recalibrated.