From banking to the wild: A.K. Sahay’s journey captured in ‘The Drift’
PINAKI MAJUMDAR Jamshedpur, September 29: From the structured world of banking to the untamed world of forests, Akhilesh Kumar Sahay, a former…
AK Sahay
PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, September 29: From the structured world of banking to the untamed world of forests, Akhilesh Kumar Sahay, a former banker from Dhanbad, has charted an unusual journey as a wildlife author, nature chronicler and avid birdwatcher.
His latest book, The Drift – Jungle Stories of a Banker, brings together his experiences, observations and encounters with forests and wildlife. Published by White Falcon Publishing, the 146-page paperback was released in June 2026 and is classified as an autobiography.
A Banker’s Unusual Journey into the Wild
For Sahay, the transition from banking to wildlife writing has been driven by a longstanding fascination with nature. His narrative combines his professional experiences with stories and observations from the wilderness, offering readers a glimpse into a world far removed from the routines of urban life.
His association with Jamshedpur has also given him opportunities to interact with students at schools and colleges, where he has spoken about wildlife, nature and the importance of developing a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Wildlife Personalities Appreciate the Book
The Drift has attracted appreciation from personalities associated with wildlife and nature writing, including conservationist Romulus Whitaker, wildlife writer and photographer Bikram Grewal, and Nikhil Devasar.
Devasar described the book as a “great book”, while Whitaker has also reviewed and appreciated the work. Grewal described it as “a good and interesting read”, noting Sahay’s easy and engaging writing style.
The book draws on Sahay’s personal experiences and curiosity about the natural world rather than presenting the jungle merely from the perspective of a distant observer.
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From Books to Grassroots Conservation
Sahay’s engagement with nature extends beyond writing and photography. Over the years, he has authored books including Glimpses from India’s Natural World, Birds in India, Wildlife Splendour and Indian Photographers.
His book Glimpses from India’s Natural World also received appreciation from former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who subsequently invited Sahay for a personal meeting.
The interaction became an important moment in Sahay’s journey and strengthened his belief in taking conservation awareness beyond forests and wildlife sanctuaries to classrooms, communities and young people.
Connecting Young People with Nature
Inspired by his engagement with Kalam, Sahay expanded his efforts to promote environmental awareness among young people. He initiated nature clubs, organised bird surveys and participated in awareness campaigns in Jharkhand, Chennai, Goa and other parts of the country.
Through these initiatives, his work has extended from wildlife writing and photography to conservation education, encouraging students and young nature enthusiasts to observe birds, understand local biodiversity and develop a closer connection with their surroundings.
A Regional Connection for Jharkhand Readers
For readers in Jharkhand, The Drift carries an added regional resonance. Sahay’s roots in Dhanbad and his repeated visits to Jamshedpur connect his literary and conservation journey with the state’s own rich forests and wildlife landscape.
The book is also available internationally through Amazon and has been released across 11 countries, expanding its reach beyond Indian readers.
Ultimately, The Drift brings together two seemingly different worlds — banking and the wilderness — while documenting how Sahay’s fascination with forests and wildlife gradually became an important part of his life and literary journey.
