The word “musha” is a variation of the Armenian word “mshak”, meaning “worker.”
This was the term used in the Caucasus to refer to porters at markets, docks, and railway stations.
Mushi carried all sorts of loads—bundles, furniture, and, sometimes – people.
To support the heavy loads on their backs, mushi wore a kurtani—a hay-stuffed cushion strapped to their backs, on which the cargo was secured with ropes or straps.
The mushi had a strong sense of cooperative spirit, they were divided into small groups, each with its own specific task and designated area. Outside this area, the group would not operate.
For example, in Tiflis, there were mushi who specialized mostly in transporting railway cargo and carrying sacks of flour or grain.