Jaipur

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Capital of Rajasthan, India, 240 km/150 mi southeast of Delhi; population (2001 est) 2,324,300. Products include textiles and metal products, as well as distilling and the manufacture of glass, carpets, blankets, and footwear. Founded by Jai Singh II in 1728, it was formerly the capital of the state of Jaipur, which was merged with Rajasthan in 1949.

Features include the Jantar Mantar observatory, built by Maharajah Jai Singh II in 1728; it contains the world's largest sundial. The five-storey Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds (1799) is a notable landmark. The city was painted pink, the traditional colour of welcome, in honour of the visit of Prince Albert, consort of Queen Victoria, in 1883. It is also noted for its blue pottery, jewellery, and ivory, marble and stone carving. The city is the site of the University of Rajasthan (1947).

The flag is known as the ‘Lone Star’ banner. The red triangle symbolizes the blood shed in the fight for freedom from Spain. The blue stripes stand for Cuba's three provinces. Effective date: 20 May 1902. >>