Title: Ek Thaa Sudhakar Ek Thii Sudha
Author: Krishna Bihari
ISBN: 978-93-4726-392-7
Publisher: Inksight Publishers
About The Book
Ek Thaa Sudhakar Ek Thii Sudha is a touching and evocative novel that beautifully captures the essence of rural life in northern India during a bygone era. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Rapti River and the town of Bansi in Uttar Pradesh, the story follows the life of Sudhakar, an intelligent, disciplined, and idealistic young student whose dreams, values, and emotions shape the course of his journey.
The novel vividly portrays the social, cultural, and educational environment of the late 1960s, bringing to life the simplicity, traditions, and relationships that defined village life. Through Sudhakar’s experiences, readers witness the aspirations of a young generation striving for knowledge, character, and self-improvement while navigating the realities of family, society, and nature.
At its heart, the book is also a tender tale of affection and human connection. The gradual and innocent bond that develops between Sudhakar and Sudha unfolds amidst the rhythms of rural life, creating moments of warmth, innocence, and emotional depth. Their story is woven into a larger narrative that celebrates love, duty, perseverance, and the enduring values of Indian culture.
Rich in descriptive detail and filled with memorable characters, Ek Thaa Sudhakar Ek Thii Sudha is more than a love story—it is a nostalgic journey into a world where relationships were cherished, ideals mattered, and life moved in harmony with nature. The novel offers readers a heartfelt reflection on memory, companionship, and the timeless beauty of human emotions.
About The Author
Krishna Bihari
Parents: Late Smt. Shanti Devi and Late Shri Shyam Lal
Date of Birth: 14 September 1951 (Anant Chaturdashi)
Place of Birth: Bansi Town, situated in the foothills of Nepal, Siddharthnagar District, Uttar Pradesh – 272153, India
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering (1975) from HBTI, Kanpur
Krishna Bihari developed a deep interest in literature and reading from an early age. While serving in the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD), he closely observed the social and administrative realities around him, which greatly influenced his literary pursuits. Throughout his life, he has been actively engaged in writing across various genres, including poetry, novels, short poetic forms (Kshanikas), poetic adaptations, autobiography, satirical essays, and other literary works.
He retired from the post of Superintending Engineer on 30 April 2012. To date, he has authored and published eight books, reflecting his diverse literary interests and rich life experiences.
Neel Preet: What inspired you to write एक था सुधाकर, एक थी सुधा, and how did the story first take shape in your mind?
Krishna Bihari: The river’s annual floods, the devastation they wrought, and the malpractices associated with them inspired me to write; the story took shape after I read a newspaper report about the rape and murder of a woman.
Neel Preet: The novel vividly portrays village life, family relationships, and local culture. How much of the story is drawn from your own experiences or observations?
Krishna Bihari: The entire novel is built upon its setting and observations.
Neel Preet: Sudhakar is an ambitious young man who dreams of achieving success through education. What message were you hoping to convey through his journey?
Krishna Bihari: Sudhakar’s journey is based on values, service, and education.
Neel Preet: Nature, monsoon rains, floods, and the rural landscape play an important role in the narrative. Why was it important for you to make the environment such a strong presence in the story?
Krishna Bihari: Story is based on flood so nature description is suitable in backgriund.
Neel Preet: The novel reflects the challenges and aspirations of young people from small towns and villages. How relevant do you think these themes are today?
Krishna Bihari: It is very common in rural areas to get better education.
Neel Preet: Which character in the book was the most enjoyable or challenging for you to write, and why?
Krishna Bihari: The character of the uncle, who plays the role of the narrator in the novel.
Neel Preet: The story beautifully balances romance, social realities, and personal growth. How did you maintain this balance while writing?
Krishna Bihari: Made possible through in-depth study.
Neel Preet: What do you hope younger readers learn from Sudhakar’s determination, discipline, and commitment to his goals?
Krishna Bihari: Due to the role of an ideal hero.
Neel Preet: If readers remember just one message from एक था सुधाकर, एक थी सुधा, what would you like that message to be?
Krishna Bihari: Sacrament.
