Foundation of Jaipur (18 November 1727): History, Architecture and Urban Planning

18 November 1727 marks the foundation of Jaipur, one of India's most remarkable historic cities. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, established the city as a new capital of his kingdom. Designed under the architectural supervision of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, Jaipur became an outstanding example of planned urban development in 18th-century India. Popularly known as the Pink City, Jaipur is recognised for its grid-based street layout, architectural uniformity, traditional markets and integration of Indian architectural principles with other planning influences.

Historical Background: Why Was Jaipur Founded?

Before Jaipur, Amber (Amer) served as the capital of the Kachhwaha Rajput rulers. However, increasing population, limited water resources and the growing need for a larger commercial and administrative centre created the necessity for a new capital. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II decided to establish a new city on the plains south of the Amber hills. Unlike many contemporary settlements that developed organically around forts and hilly terrain, Jaipur was conceived as a systematically planned city.

The foundation of Jaipur was laid on 18 November 1727. The city was named after its founder, Jai Singh II. The new capital was envisioned not merely as a royal settlement but also as a centre of trade, commerce, administration and culture. Traders and merchants were invited to settle in the city, contributing to its economic development.

Role of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (1688–1743) was a Kachhwaha Rajput ruler known for his interest in astronomy, mathematics, architecture and urban planning.

His major contributions include:

• Foundation of Jaipur: Established Jaipur in 1727 as a new capital.

• Urban Planning: Encouraged a systematic city layout integrating traditional Indian architectural principles.

• Astronomy: Established five astronomical observatories, popularly known as Jantar Mantars, at Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura and Varanasi.

• Scientific Development: Promoted astronomical observations and the study of celestial movements.

His vision combined political administration, scientific interests and commercial development.

Vidyadhar Bhattacharya: The Architect of Jaipur

Vidyadhar Bhattacharya was a Bengali architect and city planner who played a significant role in designing Jaipur. He worked under the patronage of Sawai Jai Singh II and helped translate the ruler's vision into a systematic urban plan. The design incorporated principles from traditional Indian architectural texts, particularly Vastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra, along with influences from other architectural and planning traditions.

The city's layout reflected a planned arrangement of roads, public spaces, residential areas, markets, temples and administrative buildings.

Key Features of Jaipur's Urban Planning

Jaipur is widely regarded as one of India's earliest planned cities. Its distinctive urban design makes it an important example of historical town planning.

1. Grid-Based Layout

Jaipur was designed using a grid-like pattern, with broad streets intersecting at right angles. This arrangement facilitated movement, trade and organised development. The city's layout drew inspiration from the traditional Vastu Shastra concept of the Prastara plan.

2. Nine-Square Division

The original city plan was organised into nine rectangular urban sectors, commonly known as chowkris. Two sectors were associated with state buildings and palaces, while the remaining seven were primarily intended for public use.

3. Wide Roads and Markets

The main roads were designed as commercial avenues, with shops and buildings arranged along them. This encouraged trade and made markets an integral part of the city's urban structure.

4. Chaupars (Public Squares)

Large public squares known as chaupars were developed at important road intersections. These spaces supported public interaction, commercial activity and urban movement.

5. Fortifications and Gates

The historic walled city was enclosed by defensive walls and gates, providing security and regulating access to the settlement. These features reflected the city's combined administrative, commercial and defensive functions.

Why Is Jaipur Known as the Pink City?

Jaipur acquired its popular identity as the Pink City during the 19th century. In 1876, during the visit of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII), Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II ordered the city to be painted in a distinctive pink or terracotta shade as a gesture of hospitality. Over time, the colour became an enduring feature of Jaipur's historic urban identity. It is important to distinguish this development from the city's foundation: Jaipur was established in 1727, while its association with the pink colour became prominent much later.

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition

In 2019, Jaipur was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as Jaipur City, Rajasthan. UNESCO recognised the city for its exceptional example of indigenous urban planning and construction in South Asia.

The recognition highlights:

• Its distinctive grid-based urban layout.

• The integration of traditional Indian planning principles with other cultural influences.

• Its historic markets, streets and public squares.

• Its architectural and cultural heritage.

• Its importance as an 18th-century planned commercial capital.

The inscription was based on UNESCO World Heritage criteria (ii), (iv) and (vi).

Important Historical Monuments of Jaipur

Jaipur's architectural heritage includes several important monuments that reflect its political, scientific, religious and cultural history.

1. City Palace:

Established by Sawai Jai Singh II as part of the development of the new capital. It reflects a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural influences.

2. Jantar Mantar:

An astronomical observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II. The Jaipur observatory is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised in 2010.

3. Hawa Mahal:

Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It is known for its distinctive façade and numerous small windows.

4. Amer Fort:

The historic fort and former capital of the Kachhwaha rulers, located near Jaipur.

5. Nahargarh Fort:

A fortification overlooking Jaipur, associated with the city's historical defence system.

Significance for UPSC Examination

Prelims - Important Facts

Mains - GS Paper I

• Indian culture and architecture.

• Historical urban planning and town development.

• Regional kingdoms and their contributions to art and architecture.

• Cultural heritage and conservation.

Mains - GS Paper III

• Urbanisation and planned urban development.

• Heritage-sensitive urban planning.

• Sustainable development and conservation of historic cities.

Possible UPSC Mains Question

Jaipur represents a remarkable example of planned urban development in 18th-century India. Discuss its architectural features and the significance of its UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When was Jaipur founded?

Jaipur was founded on 18 November 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, in present-day Rajasthan.

Q2. Who designed Jaipur?

Jaipur was designed under the architectural supervision of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Bengali architect and city planner who worked under the patronage of Sawai Jai Singh II.

Q3. Why is Jaipur called the Pink City?

Jaipur became known as the Pink City after Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II ordered the city to be painted pink in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales.

Q4. When was Jaipur declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Jaipur City was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019 under criteria (ii), (iv) and (vi).

Q5. What is unique about Jaipur's urban planning?

Jaipur is known for its grid-based layout, nine urban sectors, broad roads, organised markets and public squares called chaupars, reflecting a planned approach to urban development.

Conclusion

The foundation of Jaipur in 1727 represents an important milestone in India's history of urban planning. The vision of Sawai Jai Singh II and the architectural contribution of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya transformed the idea of a new capital into a systematically organised city. Jaipur's grid-based layout, commercial streets and integration of traditional architectural principles demonstrate the sophistication of urban planning in 18th-century India. Its UNESCO World Heritage recognition further highlights the importance of preserving India's historic cities as living examples of cultural and architectural heritage.