The logic follows here is: As given, Bala = 40 years i) Akshay is younger than Bala means, Bala > Akshay ii) Rahul is between Akshay and Anirudh means, Akshay > Rahul > Anirudh iii) While Bala is between Akshay and Darpan means, Darpan > Bala > Akshay Thus combining all statements we get: Darpan > Bala > Akshay > Rahul > Anirudh. Now, it is given here is a consecutive difference of 4 years between their ages, and Bala's age is 40 years. Rahul = Bala ages - 8 years. Rahul = 40 - 8 years Rahul = 32 years. Hence, the correct answer is "32 years".