Explanation: Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is famously known as the Pink City due to the distinctive pink color of its buildings, which were painted pink in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales. The city was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727, marking a significant milestone in the history of Rajasthan.
Sawai Jai Singh II was a prominent ruler of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty and the founder of the city of Jaipur. He was not only a skilled administrator but also a great patron of arts, science, and architecture. His vision for Jaipur was to create a city that would be a center of learning, culture, and commerce. To achieve this, he invited architects and planners from various parts of India and even from Europe to design the city.
The planning of Jaipur was influenced by the principles of Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian system of architecture and design. The city was laid out in a grid pattern with wide streets and well-planned marketplaces, which was quite modern for its time. The city was divided into six zones, each with its own distinct function, such as residential, commercial, and administrative areas.
Sawai Jai Singh II also built several notable structures in Jaipur, including the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and the City Palace. The Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, was designed to allow royal women to observe street festivals while remaining unseen. The Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory that showcases Sawai Jai Singh II's interest in science and mathematics.
The construction of Jaipur under Sawai Jai Singh II's rule was a significant achievement in urban planning and architecture. The city's design and layout have stood the test of time and continue to be admired for their beauty and functionality. The Pink City of Jaipur remains a testament to the vision and legacy of Sawai Jai Singh II, who played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and architectural landscape of Rajasthan.
In conclusion, the correct answer is Sawai Raja Jai Singh, as he was the visionary ruler who founded Jaipur and laid the foundation for its unique architecture and urban planning. Understanding the historical context and the contributions of Sawai Jai Singh II is essential for comprehending the significance of Jaipur in the history of Rajasthan.