Dimple is a fiercely independent eighteen-year-old Indian-American student heading to a web development summer program called Insomnia Con. She focuses entirely on her career ambitions and rejects traditional expectations, particularly the idea of arranged marriage. She seeks to create a healthcare app to help people with diabetes manage their routines.

Rishi is a wealthy, traditional eighteen-year-old who plans to study engineering at MIT to please his family. He possesses a deep respect for his Indian heritage and the concept of arranged marriage, viewing his parents' relationship as a romantic ideal. Though he hides it from his family, he is an incredibly talented comic book artist who created an original superhero named Aditya.

Ashish is Rishi's younger brother and a talented high school varsity basketball player. He rebels against his parents' strict expectations and often dresses in his athletic gear. He offers a stark contrast to Rishi's dutiful nature, leading to occasional tension between the siblings.

Celia is a seventeen-year-old half-Dominican student who grew up in San Francisco. She focuses heavily on fashion and seeks to fit in socially, which leads her to spend time with a wealthy, elitist group of students. She struggles with insecurity and desires a fresh start after high school.

Dimple's mother holds traditional views regarding Indian womanhood. She prioritizes finding an "Ideal Indian Husband" for her daughter and frequently clashes with Dimple over fashion and lifestyle choices.

Dimple's father lives with diabetes and acts as a quiet but supportive figure in his daughter's life. He helps convince his wife to let Dimple attend the coding convention.

A self-made CEO of Global Comm who worked hard to provide a comfortable life for his family after his own parents passed away. He expects his oldest son to attend MIT and study engineering.

Rishi's mother expects her sons to honor traditional Indian values. Her arranged marriage serves as Rishi's template for a perfect, stable relationship.

A wealthy and entitled participant at Insomnia Con whose father made a large financial donation to the program. He wears preppy clothes and often behaves rudely toward Dimple and Rishi.

Evan's friend and app partner at Insomnia Con. He comes from a privileged background, taking vacations to Bermuda, and purposefully distances himself from his cultural roots.

A wealthy student at Insomnia Con who forms a clique with Evan and Hari. She makes culturally ignorant comments and focuses heavily on social status.

The instructor for the web development program at Insomnia Con. He acts like a hippie, assigns unconventional projects like a photo scavenger hunt, and encourages students to embrace the creative process.

An art student at San Francisco State University. He connects with Rishi over their shared love of drawing but becomes judgmental when he learns Rishi plans to abandon art for engineering.

A celebrated tech celebrity, coder, and web designer. She serves as a major inspiration for Dimple, who hopes to secure her mentorship and funding for a healthcare app.

A graphic novelist and creator of YouTube videos who inspired Rishi to begin drawing. He attends local conventions and shows interest in student art.

Addressed as "Auntie" by Dimple, she is a family friend whose presence sparks a mild rivalry with Mamma Shah. She encourages the idea of sending Dimple to San Francisco.

Addressed as "didi" by Dimple, she is a reserved younger family friend who visits for tea before Dimple leaves for college.