Nandha

Nandha is a young man with a troubled past who seeks a new life through education. Despite his criminal record, he shows resilience, loyalty, and a capacity for reform, guided by Periyavar's mentorship. He falls in love with Kalyani, which deepens his emotional stakes and complicates his fight against false accusations. Ultimately, he is acquitted of Durai's murder but dies when his mother poisons him, dying in her arms.

Kalyani is a Sri Lankan Tamil refugee from Jaffna who becomes Nandha's love interest. She represents resilience and hope amid displacement and trauma, providing emotional support as the couple navigates social barriers and danger. Her relationship with Nandha adds emotional stakes to the fight for a fresh start. Her presence reinforces themes of protection and belonging.

Chitra is Nandha's sister who shares the family's trauma and supports her brother as they cope with the past. She embodies quiet strength and emotional endurance, standing by her family through shock and uncertainty. Her perspective highlights the siblings' bond and the impact of violence on younger family members.

Lodukku Pandi is Nandha's loyal friend who provides companionship and practical support in a difficult environment. He embodies steadfast camaraderie and realism in the face of social pressures. His presence underscores the importance of friendship when rebuilding lives after trauma.

Periyavar is a wealthy, principled college head who wields power with a paternal but firm hand. He mentors Nandha and offers him a chance to reform, becoming a guardian figure beyond the formal system. His influence extends to social welfare, making him a central pillar in the community’s attempt at justice and growth.

Durai is Periyavar's ambitious son-in-law who schemes to leverage Periyavar's influence for his own ends. He embodies betrayal and a willingness to manipulate for power, pushing events toward conflict and courtroom drama. His actions are a catalyst for the central moral struggles of the story.

Nandha's mother is deaf-mute and fiercely protective, living under the weight of their traumatic past. Her paranoia about her son's potential violence drives her to drastic, self-sacrificial acts. Her relationship with Nandha reveals deep maternal devotion and tragic consequences of fear.

Ragging Senior is a college figure connected to campus power dynamics and the pressures of student life. He represents the coercive culture of authority and the risks faced by vulnerable students within such hierarchies. His presence contributes to the atmosphere of intimidation surrounding Nandha and his peers.