Moorthy is a young, educated Brahmin man who returns to his rural village as a devoted follower of Mahatma Gandhi. He rejects the traditional caste system and begins actively preaching nonviolence, independence, and social equality. His steadfast commitment to these ideals positions him as the spiritual and political center of Kanthapura's growing resistance movement, though it also causes intense friction with the village's traditionalists and his own family.

Rangamma is a wealthy, educated Brahmin widow who commands significant respect within Kanthapura. Unlike many of her peers, she possesses a broad understanding of the world outside India and finds herself drawn to the progressive, egalitarian concepts brought back by Moorthy. Her large home quickly becomes a central meeting place and operational hub for the village's emerging political movement.

Patel Range Gowda serves as the primary executive officer and political leader of Kanthapura. He is a wealthy, authoritative figure who oversees the village's day-to-day affairs and holds considerable sway over its residents. Deeply suspicious of outside authority and British influence, he provides crucial local backing and legitimacy to the new political movement.

Bade Khan is a Muslim policeman sent by British authorities to observe and report on the village's activities. Finding no welcome within Kanthapura's strict caste-based housing system, he establishes his presence at the nearby Skeffington Coffee Estate. He operates as the immediate, on-the-ground enforcement of colonial rule, aggressively monitoring dissent and maintaining order.

Bhatta is the First Brahmin of Kanthapura, wielding immense power as a prominent moneylender who owns nearly half the village properties. He is a strict traditionalist who fiercely defends the existing caste system and views Gandhian philosophy as a direct threat to his social and financial dominance. He frequently leverages his economic influence and connections to religious authorities to suppress the growing rebellion.

Achakka is an elderly Brahmin woman who serves as the narrator of the story. She possesses a deep knowledge of the village's local legends, Hindu traditions, and daily gossip. Through her observant eyes, she chronicles the arrival of Gandhian philosophy and the profound changes it brings to her rigid, traditional community.

Venkamma is a prominent voice in Kanthapura's social circles, known for her sharp tongue and extensive gossip network. She is a strict traditionalist who vehemently defends the old ways and actively opposes any disruption to the social hierarchy. Her personal grudges, particularly against her former sister-in-law Rangamma, often drive her actions and political allegiances.

Rachanna is an older Pariah laborer who lives and works on the nearby colonial coffee plantation. Despite the harsh conditions and strict social boundaries imposed upon him, he demonstrates a bold willingness to challenge authority. He quickly embraces the message of equality and becomes a vital connection between the Brahmin activists and the lower-caste workers.

Narsamma is Moorthy's elderly, highly respected mother. A deeply pious woman, she envisions a conventional, prosperous future for her son within the strict boundaries of their caste. She struggles intensely to reconcile her unconditional love for Moorthy with the shocking, taboo-breaking realities of his new political activism.

Kamalamma is Rangamma's sister, a controversial figure in the Brahmin quarter. As a young widow, she defies local customs by continuing to wear the vibrant attire of a married woman rather than traditional mourning garments, inviting the distrust of her neighbors.

Ratna is a young woman in the village who forms a quiet connection with Moorthy during his spiritual trials. She demonstrates an openness to his teachings and learns his methods of prayer.