Raman
Raman is the protagonist of the story. He is a sign painter who works in Malgudi. He takes great care with his work and loves what he does. He is often frustrated by the demands of his customers who seem to have little understanding of his craft. He lives with his aunt, whose traditional values and superstitious outlook on the world often irritate him. It is later revealed that she took him in after his parents died when he was quite young. He feels conflicted about his attraction to Daisy later in the story. He alternates between feeling shame for his sexual desire and joy at his newfound connection. While he is initially portrayed as progressive and modern by the standards of his time, it is later shown that he expects Daisy to perform traditional household duties.
Daisy
Daisy is the story's other central character. She is an activist for the cause of family planning and birth control. She is very passionate about the cause and travels across India trying to educate people. She feels strongly that overpopulation is causing irreparable damage to India's future. As the story progresses, it becomes apparent that Daisy also has a softer side, which Raman discovers as they talk during the long hours they spend traveling together. Raman discovers that she ran away from home at a young age after nearly being forced into an arranged marriage. She has feelings for Raman but ultimately cannot be with him, as she is afraid it will jeopardize her work.
Raman's Aunt
Raman's aunt is an elderly woman. She effectively raises Raman after his parents die when he is young. She is a traditionalist and puts a lot of stock in customs and myths. She spends large parts of the day recounting religious stories and sharing family gossip. She is often consulted by people in the city for her advice, as she is regarded as something of a sage. She is scandalized by Raman's decision to marry Daisy as she is not a Hindu and is not a member of their caste. She later leaves her home to get away from Raman and Daisy.
The Priest
The priest is a religious man in a village who Raman and Daisy encountered in their travels. He claims to be able to make barren women fertile again. He says that he possesses mystical powers. He gets into an argument with Daisy about his abilities and later correctly intuits that she ran away from home as a young girl. He is an odd and reserved man. Later, when Raman goes to speak with him, he refuses to share anything else about Daisy, as he does not believe it would be proper since they are not husband and wife.
The Cart Driver
The cart driver is the man who takes Daisy and Raman back to Malgudi. He is depicted as being harsh and somewhat crass. He tells them that he beats his wife when he gets drunk and makes several dismissive comments about women. Daisy intensely dislikes his condescending attitude.
Daisy's Father
Daisy's father is a staunch traditionalist. He does not appear in the present of the story, but she recounts how he became furious with her after she was rude to one of her potential suitors.
Raman's Aunt's Friend
Towards the end of the novel, Raman encounters a friend of his aunt's as he plans her trip out of Malgudi. She is nosy and critical of Raman's decision, taking note of his aunt's disapproval. Raman does not care for her.
Gaffur
Gaffur is the driver who takes Daisy out of Malgudi. He is a friend of Raman's. He is described as being dependable and honest.
Lawyer
At the beginning of the novel, Raman designs a sign for a lawyer. He proves to be a difficult customer, as he wants the sign to be done according to the suggestions of his astrologer. He later refuses to pay for Raman's services, as he dislikes how he did the sign.
The Bangle-Seller
Raman notices a vendor of bangles on the street. He is an old man who frequently touches the wrists of his female customers. Raman sees him as lecherous and unappealing.
Gupta
Gupta is a friend of Raman's. They hang out together often at the Boardless Hotel. They often trade somewhat crude jokes. His demeanor is light and comical.
