A Passage to India

A Passage to India

Year: 1985

Runtime: 164 min

Language: English

Director: David Lean

AdventureDramaHistory

In 1920s India, a meeting at a significant cave leads to a tense and impactful trial. When Adela Quested, an Englishwoman, accuses Indian doctor Aziz Ahmed of a serious offense, the resulting legal proceedings expose deep-seated prejudices and tensions between the British colonial rulers and the Indian population. The case threatens the delicate balance of their relationship, stirring up strong emotions and the potential for unrest throughout the region.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen A Passage to India yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – A Passage to India (1985)

Trace every key event in A Passage to India (1985) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Adela's Journey Begins

Adela Quested travels from England to the British Raj in India, accompanied by Mrs. Moore, the mother of her intended husband, Ronny Heaslop. This journey marks the beginning of Adela's quest for adaptation to a new life and culture in a foreign land.

1920s England
2

Arrival in Bombay

Upon reaching India, Adela and Mrs. Moore arrive in Bombay, where they prepare for a long and arduous journey of approximately 1,000 miles to the town of Chandrapore. Their arrival sets the stage for their exploration of the British-Indian dynamic in the region.

1920s Bombay
3

Encounter with Collector Turton

While traveling to Chandrapore, Adela and Mrs. Moore meet Collector Turton and his wife, who are part of the British community. This meeting introduces them to the hierarchical structure of British society in India and its segregation from the local population.

1920s On the way to Chandrapore
4

Cultural Isolation Realized

As they settle in Chandrapore, Adela and Mrs. Moore quickly recognize the stark isolation of the British from the Indian community during a time of rising independence sentiments. Adela's discomfort grows as she witnesses the prejudices and disdain with which Indians are treated by the British.

1920s Chandrapore
5

Mrs. Moore Meets Dr. Aziz

At a local mosque, Mrs. Moore meets Dr. Aziz, and their interaction fosters a connection that challenges the racial boundaries of the British Raj. Dr. Aziz is taken aback by her kindness, marking a pivotal moment in their understanding of each other.

1920s Local mosque in Chandrapore
6

Introduction to Professor Godbole

School superintendent Richard Fielding introduces Adela and Mrs. Moore to the eccentric Professor Narayan Godbole. This introduction opens the door for further cultural exploration and interaction with the local Indian community.

1920s Chandrapore
7

Plans for Marabar Caves

Aziz takes on the task of organizing an excursion to the Marabar Caves for Adela and Mrs. Moore, aiming to create a memorable experience. However, Ronny's disapproval of any interaction between his fiancée and the Indians complicates matters.

1920s Chandrapore
8

Adela's Emotional Conflict

After contemplating her relationship with Ronny following a reflective bike ride, Adela struggles with her feelings and ultimately decides to accept her engagement to him. This decision signifies her internal conflict regarding identity and belonging in India.

1920s Chandrapore
9

Chaos at the Marabar Caves

On the day of the excursion to the Marabar Caves, disarray ensues, resulting in a fragmented group. As Adela and Aziz venture deeper into the caves, an unsettling atmosphere begins to envelop them, foreshadowing the impending chaos.

1920s Marabar Caves
10

Adela's Disorienting Experience

Inside the caves, Adela becomes increasingly disoriented and panicked, leading her to flee in distress, abandoning Aziz and the group. The incident ignites a series of tumultuous events that will forever alter the relationships between the British and Indian communities.

1920s Marabar Caves
11

Accusations Against Aziz

In the wake of Adela's distress, Aziz faces wrongful accusations of a grievous act against her, threatening to shatter the fragile peace between the British and Indian populations. This sudden turn of events escalates tensions and highlights colonial prejudices.

1920s Chandrapore
12

Mrs. Moore's Departure

Mrs. Moore, amidst the turmoil, insists on Aziz's innocence but ultimately resolves to return to England, burdened by the escalating tensions. Her departure symbolizes the divide and her failed hopes for mutual understanding during her time in India.

1920s Chandrapore
13

Adela's Introspection

After retracting her condemnatory accusation under pressure, Adela embarks on a journey of introspection, grappling with her choices and the reality of her life in India. The harsh truth forces her to reevaluate her understanding of herself and her surroundings.

1920s Chandrapore
14

Aziz's Vindication

Following the trial and revelation of the truth, Aziz is ultimately vindicated, enabling him to step away from colonial ties and pursue a new beginning in Kashmir. This outcome not only restores his honor but also offers a glimpse of hope for reconciliation.

1920s Chandrapore
15

New Beginnings

In the aftermath, Fielding tends to Adela as she navigates her new reality, while also finding love with Stella Moore, Mrs. Moore's daughter from a later marriage. The narrative concludes with instances of reconciliation and a promise of understanding between Aziz and Fielding, symbolizing the potential for a new hope.

1920s Kashmir

Last Updated: November 04, 2024 at 01:39

Unlock the Full Story of A Passage to India

Don't stop at just watching — explore A Passage to India in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what A Passage to India is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

A Passage to India Summary

Read a complete plot summary of A Passage to India, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

A Passage to India Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in A Passage to India

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape A Passage to India. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in A Passage to India

More About A Passage to India

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about A Passage to India: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About A Passage to India

Similar Movies to A Passage to India

Discover movies like A Passage to India that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.