Kitaab

A curious village boy who longs for freedom and new experiences. He enjoys the antics of street life, street magic, and companionship with Pappu, yet he is unsettled by the discipline and expectations of schooling. His journey hints at a shift from playful innocence to a sense of responsibility as he navigates between two worlds.

A loving and pragmatic mother who sends Babla to his sister in the city for better schooling. She hopes for his growth and safety, yet she remains a steady anchor for him and ultimately welcomes his return. Her actions reflect a balance between care and discipline.

Babla's sister in the city who hosts him and represents adult expectations and boundaries. She and her husband press for academic success and proper conduct, illustrating the push-and-pull between a child's dreams and real-world pressures. Her presence marks the shift from village naivety to urban responsibility.

Babla's classmate and friend, a playful and inquisitive companion who shares in the urban adventures and curiosity about life beyond the village. Their friendship highlights the joys of childhood discovery and the allure of the unknown. Pappu helps fuel Babla's sense of wonder and mischief.

A fellow traveler encountered during Babla's train journey back towards the village. This moment on the train underscores the film's themes of travel, transition, and the unpredictability of life on the rails. The encounter serves as a quiet counterpoint to the bustling city and the quiet village.

The authority who catches Babla for riding the train without a ticket, embodying the consequences of breaking rules. This moment exposes the vulnerability of a child caught between need, curiosity, and the system's rigid structure. His scene reinforces the film's realism about systemic discipline and its impact on the young.