From observatory to protest street: How Jantar Mantar became India's address for democratic dissent
National 23 Jul, 2026

From observatory to protest street: How Jantar Mantar became India's address for democratic dissent

Business To Business, New Delhi, 23rd July, 2026:   From a Maharaja's astronomical observatory built to track the movement of celestial bodies to the road beside it that has become India's most recognisable venue for public protests, Jantar Mantar has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the centuries.
As the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) agitation continues to draw large crowds, attention has once again turned to the history of the landmark that gave its name to the capital's best-known protest site.
Jantar Mantar was built in 1731 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II during the reign of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah. It is one of five observatories constructed by the Rajput ruler across India to observe the movement of celestial bodies and improve astronomical calculations. Over time, the road adjoining the historic monument evolved into a designated space for demonstrations, making "Jantar Mantar" synonymous not only with scientific heritage but also with democratic expression in the national capital.

Related News