Two persons in a line — total count from fixed positions Mahendra is 17th from the left; Surendra is 18th from the right. There are 8 boys between them. How many boys are in the line?

Introduction / Context:
When two positions from opposite ends and the number of people between them are known, total N can be computed directly.

Concept / Approach:
A standard identity holds: N = LeftPos + RightPos + Between.

Step-by-Step Solution:
N = 17 (left) + 18 (right) + 8 (between) = 43.

Verification / Alternative check:
Construct a schematic: if Mahendra is to the left of Surendra, Surendra's left index is 17 + 8 + 1 = 26. Then N = 26 (Surendra from left) + 18 (Surendra from right) − 1 = 43.

Final Answer:
43