Laying the Foundation

Back in the Amarasinghe Estate, Arjun returned his focus to the financial strategies that would set the stage for his future empire. With the wealth from the inheritance and the additional support from his grandparents, it was time to begin making strategic moves in the world of business and investments.

Seated in the estate's grand study, Arjun pored over newspapers, financial journals, and reports he had instructed Saumya Rajendra Chowdary, the family lawyer, to gather. Though the financial world in 1996 was still burgeoning in India, it presented a wealth of untapped opportunities.

"Equities, real estate, and technology," Arjun murmured, highlighting sections of a report. "These will dominate the next decade."

Ananya entered the study, carrying a tray of tea. "Still at it? You've been here for hours."

"This isn't just about investments," Arjun replied, glancing up. "It's about creating a foundation that will allow us to wield influence—politically, socially, and globally."

Ananya placed the tray down and leaned against the desk. "You're fourteen, Arjun. Most boys your age worry about exams, not shaping the economy."

'Most boys my age don't have the memories of a forty-year-old' Arjun thought to himself.

Arjun called for a meeting with Rajendra, Rajashekar Reddy, and several key advisors his grandfather had recommended.

"I've identified sectors that show exponential growth potential," Arjun began, spreading out documents across the estate's conference table. "I want to acquire agricultural land in strategic locations for organic farming. It will serve as a low-risk, high-yield asset."

Rajendra adjusted his glasses, scanning the figures. "You're suggesting converting portions of the existing Amarasinghe lands into organic farms?"

"Exactly. The global demand for organic products will only grow," Arjun replied. "We'll position ourselves as pioneers in India."

"What about industry?" Rajashekar Reddy asked.

"I'm already planning to invest in manufacturing, particularly textiles and pharmaceuticals," Arjun explained. "We'll acquire stakes in existing companies initially and eventually establish our own brands."

The next day, Arjun and Rajendra visited Hyderabad, the booming hub of commerce and industry. There, they met with the board of a mid-sized textile company struggling with outdated machinery and low productivity.

"I'm prepared to inject ₹10 crores into this company," Arjun declared during the meeting. "In exchange, I want a 51% stake and the authority to modernize your operations."

The board members exchanged skeptical glances. "That's a bold move, young man," one of them said. "Why should we trust you with such control?"

Arjun leaned forward, his confidence unshaken. "Because I'm not here to follow old models. With my resources and vision, I'll turn this company into a market leader within five years."

After hours of negotiation, the deal was sealed. Amarasinghe Textiles was born.

Back at the estate, Ananya greeted Arjun with a raised eyebrow. "You look unusually satisfied."

"The textile deal is done," Arjun announced. "Our first step into industrial investments."

Ananya's lips curved into a smile. "You're unstoppable, aren't you?"

Arjun shrugged. "It's not about being unstoppable. It's about being prepared."

Over the next few weeks, Arjun continued diversifying his portfolio. He invested in a pharmaceutical company in Visakhapatnam, acquired prime real estate in Nellore, and even began exploring the nascent IT industry in Bangalore.

Each move was calculated, leveraging the knowledge he retained from his previous life.

One evening, as Arjun sat in the garden reviewing his progress, Ananya joined him, carrying a ledger.

"These numbers are impressive," she said, sitting beside him. "You've grown the estate's worth by nearly 25% in just a few weeks."

"It's only the beginning," Arjun replied, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "By the time I'm twenty-one, I'll control industries, politics, and even international markets."

Ananya studied him, a mix of admiration and concern in her eyes. "Just promise me one thing."

Arjun turned to her. "What?"

"Don't lose yourself in this pursuit. Remember why you're doing it."

Arjun's expression softened. "I won't. I promise."