The firstborn son of Bengali immigrants, Gogol grows up in Massachusetts struggling with his given name. He is quiet and observant, often feeling caught between his parents' traditional expectations and his American surroundings. He eventually studies architecture and moves to New York to establish an independent identity.

A young woman from Calcutta who immigrates to America after an arranged marriage. She struggles initially with intense homesickness and isolation while her husband works. Over time, she builds a network of Bengali friends and slowly adapts to her new life in the United States, eventually working at a local library.

A quiet, studious man who comes to America to complete his PhD in electrical engineering at MIT. A catastrophic train accident in his youth instilled in him a profound appreciation for life and literature, particularly the works of Nikolai Gogol. He works hard as an academic in Massachusetts and Ohio to provide a stable life for his family.

A young Bengali-American woman pursuing a PhD in French literature at NYU. She rebels against her family's traditional expectations by immersing herself in European culture and moving to Paris for a time. She shares a complex cultural background with Gogol, meaning she understands the specific pressures of immigrant parents.

An assistant editor for an art book publisher who lives with her parents in a large Manhattan townhouse. She is self-possessed, relaxed, and comfortable in her own skin. Her bohemian, affluent lifestyle offers Gogol a glimpse into an effortless, fully American existence.

The younger sister of Gogol, who receives both a proper Bengali name and a functional pet name without the complications her brother faces. She assimilates naturally into American society and maintains a close bond with her parents.

The affluent, intellectual father of Maxine. He maintains a relaxed, open household and shows genuine, unburdened curiosity about Indian culture without making Gogol uncomfortable.

Maxine's mother, who shares a close, friendly relationship with her daughter. Her comfortable home environment creates a strong contrast to Gogol's anxious family dynamic.

An English major at Yale who becomes Gogol's first serious girlfriend. She comes from a radically different upbringing than his own, having been raised by hippie parents in Maine.

A high school teacher who assigns the short stories of Nikolai Gogol. He unknowingly causes his student deep embarrassment by detailing the tragic life of the Russian author.

An elementary school principal who respects a young student's preference to be called by his pet name rather than his new formal name.

An older acquaintance from Moushumi's high school years. He previously flirted with her when he was a postgraduate student, leaving a lasting impression on her teenage self.

An American banker who becomes engaged to Moushumi. Their relationship struggles when he fails to respect her family's cultural background.

A close friend of Moushumi who lives in Brooklyn. She leads an urbane, confident life that Moushumi often wishes to emulate.

A languidly confident friend of Moushumi who originally knew her former fiancé. He and his partner maintain an elitist lifestyle that makes others feel out of place.