Chapter 156: Merchant’s visit at capital
In the 16th century, large coin transactions in India were a complex affair which was managed by merchants’ trade organizations. These organizations provided escort services and transported gold through various trade channels which were concealed among their regular supplies. They were heavily supported by the soldiers of the kingdoms involved.
When Aditya was awarded the new contracts, tokens were issued to merchants alongside gold from the treasuries of allied kingdoms. These tokens were meant to facilitate the transport of gold under the protection of soldiers of related kingdoms.
Aditya’s company soon became popular through word of mouth for its war products. The open success of his operations was no secret which could lead to substantial profit. This visibility attracted the attention of merchant agents trading near Delhi, who were directed by their affiliated merchant groups or guilds to seek permission from the empire for mercenary services. The idea of employing a private army for escorting goods was lucrative and held many new opportunities.
Mercenary services were not a new concept in Northern India, but the idea of a private mercenary army was unique. Unlike the Portuguese and Dutch in South India, who provided such services, Northern merchants were initially skeptical about their efficiency.
To address this, Ashitosh Kulkarni, merchant in 50’s from Gwalior was assigned to meet with imperial officials and investigate about registration of armed mercenary services.
Before setting out for Delhi, Ashitosh was trading in the northern Jaunpur region.
As he crossed into borders of Delhi’s influence, he was astounded by the central kingdom’s transformation. The roads were smooth and well-structured, a stark contrast to the rugged and uneven pathways he had known earlier . The increase in horse carriages and bullock carts offering transportation services was remarkable. The journey to the capital city near Purana Qila(imperial fort) was smooth and fast.
One of the most surprising changes was the local pub, known as Dhaba, which now offered hospitable services at reasonable rates to travellers. This was a significant shift from the past when travellers had to camp on the fields or depend at mercy of villagers for lodging.
This new accommodation model provided rooms with proper staying conditions and meals, offering travelers a secure and comfortable place to rest. The patrolling police guards added an extra layer of safety, making it easier to trust strangers. This new practice, facilitated by the exchange of news through the bard system, had gained popularity and extended its influence.
After settling into a local inn, Ashitosh decided to explore the city. As he wandered through Delhi, he observed the happy faces of the people and the bustling markets filled with an abundance of goods.
The most eye-catching was the dressing style, as he could see many people wearing simple-looking pajamas over dhotis. New police guards, equipped with strange-looking crossbows, stood vigilant. Edicts displayed in the market square outlined laws and punishments for basic crimes.
While navigating the streets, Ashitosh spotted a boy of around ten years old. He approached the boy and asked, "You there, tell me the road to Khirke village."