Mirch Masala

An arrogant colonial tax collector who wields fear to extract resources from the village. He relentlessly pressures villagers and seeks to possess Sonbai, symbolizing the everyday cruelty of imperial and patriarchal power. His presence drives the central conflict and exposes the fragility of rural life under colonial rule.

The wizened factory gatekeeper who guards the masala karkhana and refuses to compromise his duty. He embodies quiet defiance, defending workers and standing up to the Subedar’s men. He sacrifices himself defending the factory when the soldiers breach the gates.

A village woman who refuses to yield to the Subedar’s demands, becoming the focal point of the community’s resistance. She endures social pressure from both men and women, choosing courage over conformity. Her steadfast stance catalyzes the factory defense and inspires others to resist.

The village chieftain whose authority is constantly tested; his absence creates tension and he tries to balance tradition with imposed demands. He leads the panchayat debate but remains hesitant to challenge patriarchal norms. His actions reflect the limits of leadership under colonial pressure.

In love with a lower caste girl, he challenges social norms by pursuing the relationship, risking family and community backlash. The revelation of their liaison highlights caste tensions that complicate village life and provoke conflict.

Factory worker in the masala karkhana; part of the female workforce that supports Sonbai and participates in the defense of the factory. Her role exemplifies the contributions of working women in times of crisis.

Factory worker and member of the female workforce; she shares in the community’s resilience and stands with Sonbai during the crisis. Her presence highlights collective solidarity among the women.

The schoolmaster who champions education and urges enrollment for the daughter, challenging social resistance to change. He is physically restrained when the conflict escalates, underscoring the fragility of progressive voices under oppression.

Owner of the spice factory who navigates the crisis from a position of authority within the workshop. His presence situates the factory within the village’s social hierarchy and reflects the economic dimension of resistance.

A member of the village who participates in social pressure against Sonbai, illustrating the communal fear and conformity that sustain oppression. He represents the ordinary townsfolk who enforce traditional norms.

Husband of Sonbai, whose relationship underlines domestic expectations and the personal stakes in resisting oppression. His presence underscores how oppression touches family life.

One of the factory workers who is part of the ensemble; she experiences social pressure and contributes to the collective defense alongside Sonbai.

Another member of the factory workforce who shares in the group's solidarity and faces the consequences of resisting oppression.

Yet another worker in the masala karkhana who participates in the defense and supports the collective act of resistance.