Returning Back to 1996 INDIA

The morning sun bathed the sprawling Amarasinghe Estate in golden light as Arjun sat in the estate's study. Stacks of documents were spread before him, detailing the family's extensive assets. Across the room, his grandfathers, Amarasinghe Rajendra Reddy and Saumya Ramachandra Chowdary, were engaged in a heated yet respectful debate about the next steps to consolidate his inheritance.

Ananya entered, bringing tea and a quiet calm to the room. Despite the tension, her presence reassured Arjun, and he silently thanked her for the unwavering support she had shown since his parents' passing.

Rajendra leaned forward, tapping his fingers on a list of agricultural properties.

"Arjun, the land portfolio includes the assets you inherited from your parents, worth ₹150 crore, and the combined holdings from both your grandfathers, worth another ₹200 crore. In total, these lands are valued at ₹350 crore. These are fertile lands producing rice, cotton, and turmeric. Properly managed, this can fund your ambitions indefinitely."

Ramachandra nodded but added, "True, but the textile and agro-processing units I own can add more value. The key is integration—grow the crops, process them, and export finished products. It's a three-step strategy that guarantees profits."

Arjun listened intently, his sharp mind processing every detail. He interjected, "Grandfather Rajendra, we should start by modernizing the agricultural practices. Drip irrigation, high-yield seeds, and direct-to-market sales. Grandfather Ramachandra, your textile units can handle the processing, but let's also explore branding our own products—premium rice, spices, and fabric for international markets."

Both men exchanged impressed glances, proud of the young man's foresight.

By noon, the estate was abuzz with activity. Arjun had arranged a lunch meeting with Rajashekar Reddy, a rising star in the Congress Party, and Advocate Srinivasa Rao, a seasoned lawyer who had worked with the family for decades.

The dining hall, with its high ceilings and intricate woodwork, was set for an elaborate meal. As they settled, Rajashekar opened the discussion.

"Arjun, your vision for integrating your family's assets is commendable. But politics will play a crucial role. If you plan to invest heavily in Andhra Pradesh, securing the government's support is vital."

Arjun nodded, taking a sip of water. "Sir, the Congress Party has been in opposition for too long. With a strong economic plan and the right promises, you can reclaim power. I can help, but I'll need your backing for certain policies—land reforms, business incentives, and infrastructure development."

Rajashekar Reddy smiled, seeing a potential ally in the young heir. "Your ambition reminds me of your father, Arjun. Let's discuss specifics. What's your immediate plan?"

Arjun turned to Srinivasa Rao. "First, I want all my assets registered under a trust with Ananya as a co-trustee. This protects them from potential disputes. Second, we need a clear legal pathway to expand these holdings without interference from distant relatives or opportunists."

The lawyer nodded. "Consider it done. I'll prepare the documents by tomorrow."

Later that evening, Arjun and his grandfathers toured the agricultural lands surrounding Nellore. Vast stretches of green fields met their gaze, punctuated by irrigation canals and small farmhouses.

Rajendra gestured to the horizon. "This is just a fraction of the land we own. Across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, there's at least 15,000 acres, all ripe for investment."

Ramachandra added, "Imagine the scale of operations if we leverage these lands efficiently—multiple harvests, employment for thousands, and exports worth hundreds of crores."

Arjun's mind raced with possibilities. "We'll start small—set up cold storage facilities, invest in processing units, and develop logistics networks. Every step should maximize efficiency and minimize waste."

As the day ended, Arjun sat on the balcony of the estate, overlooking the vast expanse of his inheritance. The weight of responsibility felt less daunting with the support of his grandfathers and Ananya.

He thought about the meeting with Rajashekar Reddy and the possibilities it unlocked. Political alliances, strategic investments, and family unity—everything was falling into place.

But in the back of his mind, he knew the journey had only begun. To become the world's richest man, he would need to play every card carefully, anticipate every challenge, and trust only a select few.

Arjun smiled to himself. "The game is just beginning," he whispered, his eyes gleaming with determination.