Question

Krishnadeva Raya (ruled 1509-29), the most famous ruler of Vijayanagara, composed a work on statecraft in Telugu known as the Amuktamalyada. About traders he wrote: A king should improve the harbours of his country and so encourage its commerce that horses, elephants, precious gems, sandalwood, pearls and other articles are freely imported … He should arrange that the foreign sailors who land in his country on account of storms, illness and exhaustion are looked after in a suitable manner … Make the merchants of distant foreign countries who import elephants and good horses be attached to yourself by providing them with daily audience, presents and allowing decent profits. Then those articles will never go to your enemies.

1. Why do you think the king was interested in encouraging trade?
2. Which groups of people would have benefited from these transactions?

Answer 1

1. The king was interested in encouraging trade because:
   • Military Strength: He wanted to secure high-quality horses and elephants for his army.
   • Economic Prosperity: Importing luxury goods like gems, pearls, and sandalwood boosted state revenue and wealth.
   • Denying Resources to Enemies: By keeping foreign merchants happy with profits and gifts, he ensured crucial military supplies did not go to rival kingdoms.
   • Global Reputation: Providing medical care and safety to stranded foreign sailors improved the kingdom’s international standing.
2. The groups of people who benefited from these transactions are as follows:
   • The King and State Treasury: Gained wealth, customs duties, and military power.
   • Foreign and Local Merchants: Received decent profits, safety, and royal gifts.
   • The Military/Army: Gained access to superior warhorses and elephants.
   • Artisans and Elite Consumers: Got access to rare luxury goods like pearls and precious stones.