A Passage to India Summary

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Here you will find a A Passage to India summary (E.M. Forster's book).
We begin with a summary of the entire book, and then you can read each individual chapter's summary by visiting the links on the "Chapters" section.

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

A Passage to India Summary Overview

Two women from England, the youthful Adela Quested and the more mature Mrs. Moore, venture to India. Adela plans to be engaged to Mrs. Moore's son Ronny, a British official in the Indian city of Chandrapore. Both Adela and Mrs. Moore wish to experience the authentic India during their stay, instead of the British-influenced culture. Concurrently, Aziz, a young Muslim physician, is feeling the brunt of the poor treatment he receives from the English, particularly Major Callendar, who often inconveniences Aziz over trivial matters. Aziz and his educated friends discuss the possibility of a friendship between an Indian and an Englishman. In a serendipitous encounter at a mosque, Mrs. Moore and Aziz meet and form a friendly bond, which surprises Aziz. Mr. Turton, the overseer of Chandrapore, throws a party to introduce Adela and Mrs. Moore to the city's high-profile Indian residents. Adela meets Cyril Fielding, a college principal, who appreciates Adela's kind approach towards the Indians. He invites them for tea with himself and Hindu professor Godbole. Aziz is also invited at Adela's request. Despite a pleasant afternoon, Ronny's rude interruption sours the mood and prompts Adela to call off their engagement, although she later reconsiders after they are involved in a car accident. Aziz organizes a trip to the nearby Marabar Caves for the tea party attendees. They get separated and during this time, Adela, after realizing she doesn't love Ronny, offends Aziz with a question about his marital status. When he returns from a cave, Adela has vanished, only for Aziz to later find out that she has accused him of attempted rape. Fielding backs Aziz, leading to heightened racial tension. Eventually during Aziz's trial, Adela confesses her mistake and Aziz is released. Despite her actions, Fielding befriends Adela, leading to a fallout with Aziz. Aziz leaves Chandrapore vowing to avoid English people. After two years, Aziz learns that Fielding didn't marry Adela as he thought, but Mrs. Moore's daughter Stella. This revelation leads to the renewal of his friendship with Fielding, albeit amid a mutual understanding that their bond can only fully develop once the British are out of India.

chapter 1

Chandrapore is a rather ordinary city, save for the nearby Marabar Caves. Nestled beside the Ganges River, the city isn't much to look at. A little distance from the city are practical structures of the British colonials, conveniently located near the railway station. From here, Chandrapore seems charming due to the tropical flora masking the less appealing areas. To shatter this dreamy perception, one needs to venture into the city. The only common feature between the British establishments and the rest of Chandrapore is the expansive Indian sky. This sky is a significant aspect of the scenery, challenged only by the Marabar Hills. These hills house Chandrapore's sole remarkable feature—the Marabar Caves.

chapter 2

Dr. Aziz, a native Indian, is late to his friend Hamidullah's home, where a debate is ongoing about friendship between an Englishman and an Indian. Hamidullah, a Cambridge alumnus, argues that such friendships can exist in England. The men concur that English people become unbearable within two years and women in six months in India. Aziz chooses to avoid the English. Hamidullah introduces Aziz to his wife, who chides him for not remarrying since his wife's death. Aziz, satisfied with his life, frequently visits his three kids at his mother-in-law's home. They all, including Hamidullah's lazy relative Mohammed Latif, enjoy dinner. Aziz's poetry recital brings a sense of unity to the evening; poetry is a communal activity in India. Aziz is summoned by his boss, Major Callendar, during dinner. Irritated, he bikes to the Major's house but has to hire a tonga (pony-drawn vehicle) when his bike tire bursts. Arriving at the bungalow, he learns that the Major has left without leaving a message. Aziz is shocked when Mrs. Callendar and Mrs. Lesley take his rented tonga without asking. On his walk home, Aziz visits his beloved mosque. The mosque's architecture symbolizes Islam's truth and love to him. He fantasizes about constructing his own mosque with a heartfelt inscription. He spots an Englishwoman, Mrs. Moore, trespassing in the mosque and confronts her. She’s understanding and respectful, having removed her shoes and acknowledged the mosque's sacredness. Aziz appreciates her. Mrs. Moore, who’s visiting her magistrate son, Ronny Heaslop, bonds with Aziz over their similar family structures. Aziz senses Mrs. Moore's empathetic nature and her dislike for Mrs. Callendar. Aziz sees her as an 'Oriental' for her instinctive judgment of people and accompanies her to the door of the whites-only club.

chapter 3

Within the club, Mrs. Moore and her travel partner, Adela Quested, an English lady, pass their time in the billiard room to dodge the ongoing theater production, Cousin Kate. Mrs. Moore is accompanying Adela as per her son Ronny's wish, as he intends to propose to Adela. They meet Mr. Turton, the collector of Chandrapore, who admires Ronny. As the play ends and the billiard room gets crowded, Adela shares her longing to experience the "real India," beyond the clichéd tourist elephant rides. Cyril Fielding, a local college principal, recommends her to engage with Indians to experience the authentic India, an idea met with disapproval by the other ladies at the club who label Indians as creepy and unreliable. Despite this, Mr. Turton, keen to make Adela happy, pledges to organize a "Bridge Party" where she can interact with some Indians. As they return, Mrs. Moore points out the mosque to Ronny and Adela, mentioning the delightful man she met there. Ronny is irate when he realizes the man was an Indian, not an Englishman. Once Adela retires for the night, Ronny interrogates his mother about her encounter, perceiving it as a crafty act by Aziz using common colonial phrases. Ronny plans to report Aziz to Major Callendar, but is persuaded otherwise by his mother. In return, Ronny urges Mrs. Moore not to mention Dr. Aziz to Adela, fearing it might make her question the British treatment of Indians. After their conversation ends, Mrs. Moore retires to her room where she finds a wasp sleeping on her coat hook and coos to it gently.

chapter 4

Mr. Turton extends an invitation to several Indian gentlemen for the club's upcoming Bridge Party. This unexpected invitation leaves the Indians stunned, with Mahmoud Ali speculating that the party might be an order from the lieutenant general. The Nawab Bahadur, a leading Indian landowner, expresses his gratitude for the invitation and confirms his presence. His decision to attend draws criticism from some, but his high standing among the Indians influences others to follow his lead. The author paints a picture of the meeting room where the Indian gentlemen assemble, while the less privileged Indians, who didn't receive an invite, are left outside. The missionaries positioned at the city's edge, Mr. Grayford and Mr. Sorley, are also depicted. Mr. Sorley's belief is that all men reach heaven, except for lowly creatures such as wasps, bacteria, and mud, since heaven has limited space. His Hindu associates, however, hold a different belief, arguing that God embraces all life forms.

chapter 5

During the Bridge Party, Indians and the English are noticeably separated, which bothers Adela Quested and Mrs. Moore. The English guests, including Ronny and Mrs. Turton, disparage the Indians' attire, a blend of Eastern and Western styles. They also chat about the recent play, Cousin Kate. Mrs. Moore is taken aback by her son Ronny's narrow-minded views. Mr. Turton shows up, observing that everyone is at the party for their own gains. Mrs. Turton introduces Adela and Mrs. Moore to a group of Indian women, speaking to them in rudimentary Urdu. To Mrs. Turton's surprise, the women know English. Despite their best efforts, Adela and Mrs. Moore struggle to engage the Indian women in deeper dialogue. They arrange to visit Mrs. Bhattacharya at her house, with her husband offering to send his carriage for them. Mr. Fielding, another attendee, takes a different approach, mingling with the Indians and even dining with them. Discovering Adela and Mrs. Moore's attempts at friendliness, he invites them to tea. Adela expresses her discomfort with the English's rudeness towards the Indian guests. She mentions Dr. Aziz, prompting Fielding to extend an invitation to him as well. Later, at dinner with the McBrydes and Miss Derek, Adela envisions a dull marital life among the unfeeling English, worrying she won't experience the essence of India. After dinner, Mrs. Moore tells Ronny that Adela is upset with the English's rudeness towards the Indians. Ronny dismisses her concern, claiming their role is to maintain peace not pleasantries. Mrs. Moore disagrees, stating that it's the English's duty to be kind to the Indians due to divine command. However, she quickly regrets her invocation of God, feeling that her faith has weakened since her arrival in India.

chapter 6

On the day following his meeting with Mrs. Moore, Aziz is reprimanded by Major Callendar for not responding swiftly to his call, with no chance for Aziz to explain himself. Aziz and his associate, Dr. Panna Lal, plan to go to the Bridge Party. However, the day coincides with the death anniversary of Aziz's late wife. Therefore, he opts not to go. He grieves his lost love for a while, then borrows Hamidullah's pony to play polo in the communal area. An English soldier also practices, and they play together briefly. Dr. Lal encounters Aziz after the Bridge Party and informs him that his absence was noticed. He pushes Aziz to explain his nonattendance. Aziz finds Lal's inquiry impolite and responds defiantly. But by the time Aziz gets home, he starts fearing that the English might penalize him for skipping the event. His spirits are lifted when he finds an invitation to tea from Fielding. Aziz appreciates Fielding's courteous disregard of Aziz's earlier failure to respond to a tea invitation.

chapter 7

Fielding's worldly viewpoint prevents him from adopting the English prejudice towards Indians. The English are suspicious of Fielding's attempts to educate Indians and are bothered by his casual comments, such as his assertion that "whites" are in reality "pinko-grey." Yet, Fielding maintains cordial relationships with his English companions as well as the Indians. Aziz visits Fielding while the latter is dressing. Their initial meeting is casual, which pleases Aziz. Fielding has a minor wardrobe malfunction, but Aziz lends him a collar stud. There’s a moment of misunderstanding when Aziz perceives Fielding’s comment about a painting as a personal slight. Mrs. Moore and Adela's arrival disappoints Aziz as it disrupts his private chat with Fielding. However, the casual atmosphere prevails, and Aziz finds it easy to converse with the women. Mrs. Moore and Adela are disheartened because the Bhattacharyas failed to send their carriage as promised. Adela calls it a "mystery," but Mrs. Moore prefers the term "muddle." Fielding describes India as a muddle, and Aziz openly criticizes the Bhattacharyas. He invites the women to his humble dwelling. To Aziz's dismay, Adela takes his invite seriously and asks for his address. Aziz deflects by discussing Indian architecture. Fielding, aware of Aziz’s inaccuracies, doesn’t correct him, valuing "truth of mood" over factual accuracy. The arrival of Godbole, a Hindu professor, is last. Aziz asks Adela about her intentions of staying in India, and her negative response shocks Mrs. Moore. Fielding escorts Mrs. Moore for a college tour following Adela's unintended revelation. Adela brings up the idea of visiting Aziz's house again, but Aziz suggests the Marabar Caves instead. Aziz's ignorance about the caves becomes evident, and Godbole's inability to describe their uniqueness adds to the mystery. Ronny's sudden arrival to take Adela and his mother to a polo match at the club upsets Aziz, who reacts by becoming overly familiar. Ronny admonishes Fielding for leaving Adela alone with Indians. Before the women leave, Godbole sings a peculiar Hindu song about God's refusal to come to the singer. Adela, in her naivety, sees Aziz as "India," not realizing his limited perspective and "his method inaccurate, and that no one is India."

chapter 8

Adela, irritated by Ronny's impoliteness, talks about Aziz's suggestion of visiting Marabar Caves. However, Ronny dismisses the idea. He cites Aziz's disheveled collar as an example of the Indian's lack of meticulousness. Mrs. Moore, exhausted from the squabble, requests to be taken home. Adela feels a sudden regret for announcing her plans of leaving India at the tea party. Following the polo match, Adela privately informs Ronny about her decision not to wed him. Although upset, Ronny agrees to maintain their friendship. Adela spots a green bird and upon Ronny's inability to identify it, she feels that nothing in India can be clearly defined. This makes both of them feel alienated and insignificant in their environment, but also brings them closer, realizing their shared feelings. Unexpectedly, the Nawab Bahadur offers them a ride. Overwhelmed by the vast darkness and the vastness of the landscape, they feel small and insignificant. An accidental touch of hands sends a thrill through them. When the car breaks down unexpectedly, they all assume it hit a hyena. Miss Derek, passing by, gives them a ride back to the city. On the way back, Miss Derek's humor about her Indian noble employer, and the Nawab Bahadur's prolonged courteous speeches, bring Adela and Ronny closer. They decide to marry upon reaching the bungalow. Adela, however, is instantly disappointed - she believes she'll be viewed like every other English wife in India. They inform Mrs. Moore about their decision and the mysterious car incident, to which she responds that the car might have hit a "ghost." In the city, Nawab Bahadur explains the accident, stating it happened near where he had accidentally killed a drunk man nine years before. He believes the deceased man was behind the recent accident. Aziz, however, is doubtful and wishes Indians were less superstitious.

chapter 9

A few days post the tea event, Aziz falls mildly sick and exaggerates his condition, spending time in bed contemplating a visit to a brothel in Calcutta. He is aware that his superiors, like Major Callendar, would disapprove of such a decision, but he doesn't let social norms restrain him, as long as he remains undetected. Noticing his room filled with flies, he calls upon his servant, Hassan, who unfortunately, is quite lackadaisical. Soon, Aziz's room fills up with guests, including Hamidullah, Syed Mohammed, Haq and Rafi, who all come to check on his health. The gossip in the room revolves around Professor Godbole's health, suspicion of Mr. Fielding's possible role in it, and attributing all diseases to Hindus. Even as Aziz recites a poem, Hamidullah is lost in thoughts about the ineffectiveness of the nationalist meeting he is due to attend. As the guests decide to leave, Dr. Panna Lal arrives to examine Aziz. Recognizing Aziz's slight ailment, Dr. Lal covers up for him, hoping for a reciprocal favor in the future. After confirming Professor Godbole's stable condition, some of the guests scold Rafi for his exaggerated rumors, sparking an argument involving Dr. Lal's driver, Ram Chand, and Rafi's uncle, Syed Mohammed. Suddenly, Fielding enters the room and Aziz, usually concerned about appearances, is too preoccupied to feel embarrassed about his humble abode. While trying to comfort Rafi, Fielding gets questioned about his beliefs and views on England's role in India, which he answers honestly, surprising the men. Disappointed with his first visit, Fielding leaves the room, and guides the rest of the men out.

chapter 10

Escaping Aziz's abode, Fielding and his companions find the weather and surrounding environment stifling. The audible sounds made by various creatures nearby underscore the fact that animals seem to be ever-present in India, unlike England. The gentlemen opt for returning home and climbing onto their carriages instead of resuming work. As the sweltering season nears, people across India start to seek refuge indoors.

chapter 11

Fielding, standing outside Aziz's home, doesn't get his horse as per Aziz's secret instruction to his servants. Aziz invites Fielding back in, highlighting the simple state of his home. However, Fielding shrugs it off. Fielding is shown a picture of Aziz's deceased wife, a gesture that he thanks Aziz for. Aziz admits to liking Fielding due to his belief in brotherhood among men. They note the English government's failed attempts to better India via institutions rather than initiating with friendships. Suddenly, Fielding feels disheartened, believing he fails to match Aziz's emotional intensity. He wishes he had personal stories to share and starts feeling a sense of impending loneliness. Aziz inquires about Fielding's family, finding that he has none. In jest, Aziz proposes that Fielding should wed Adela, an idea which Fielding strongly dismisses. He criticizes Adela for treating India as a school subject. Fielding also discloses Adela’s engagement to Ronny Heaslop, which brings relief to Aziz as he had been dreading hosting an expedition to Marabar Caves. While Fielding dislikes Adela’s approach, Aziz disapproves of her lack of attractiveness. Aziz's protective instincts towards Fielding kick in, and he cautions him to avoid being too candid with other Indians. When Aziz expresses concern over Fielding potentially losing his job, Fielding reassures him. Fielding's belief in "traveling light" prevents him from marrying. After Fielding departs, Aziz retreats to his dreams contentedly.

chapter 12

The Marabar Caves sit within ancient hills, uniquely standing out from the surrounding terrain. Each cave features a slim entryway leading to a vast, dim, round room. When a match is struck inside the caves, the light reflects sharply off the smooth interior. The caves are synonymous with emptiness, their fame seemingly radiating not just from people, but also from the earth and wildlife. A massive, supposedly hollow boulder precariously sits atop the tallest hill, known as Kawa Dol.

chapter 13

Adela expresses a desire to tour the Marabar Hills with Aziz, a conversation overhead by her servant. The distorted message reaches Aziz and he feels compelled to fulfill his previous promise. Despite the significant logistics and expenses involved, he arranges the trip inviting Fielding, Godbole, and the ladies to Marabar. Ronny agrees to Adela and Mrs. Moore's participation, contingent on Fielding's company. To catch the pre-dawn train to the hills, Aziz, Mohammed Latif, and several servants decide to overnight at the station. Mrs. Moore, Adela, and their servant Antony join them early morning. Under Aziz's advice, Adela attempts to send Antony home, but he resists until a bribe from Mohammed Latif convinces him. Aziz isn't concerned about Fielding and Godbole's absence as he trusts that Englishmen are punctual. He discusses the journey's specifics with Mohammed Latif, who is managing the railway carriage when the train unexpectedly begins to move. Fielding and Godbole arrive late due to Godbole's lengthy prayers. Fielding's failed attempt to board the moving train leaves Aziz distraught. However, Mrs. Moore and Adela comfort him, assuring him the trip can proceed without Fielding. Overwhelmed by their kindness and disregard for racial differences, Aziz develops a deep affection for the women, especially Mrs. Moore.

chapter 14

After experiencing Godbole's Hindu chant at Fielding's tea, both Adela and Mrs. Moore seem to be in a state of emotional numbness. While Mrs. Moore is resigned to her apathy, Adela chastises herself for her indifference, even resorting to pretend enthusiasm. During their train journey, Adela discusses her future plans with Mrs. Moore, who is in poor health and holds a cynical view towards matrimony. She believes that society's overemphasis on marriage restricts its comprehension of human nature. As they draw close to the hills, their train halts next to an elephant. Aziz had gone to great lengths to arrange this elephant ride, so Adela and Mrs. Moore feign excitement. They ride the elephant to the Marabar Caves along with several villagers. However, the early morning light only reveals a monochrome, somewhat barren landscape, shrouded in an eerie silence. Upon reaching the hills, none of the group find them appealing as Aziz lacks knowledge of the area to serve as an effective guide. Aziz’s servants serve tea to the women while Aziz contemplates the success of the trip, comparing himself to Emperor Babur, the ever-hospitable ruler. Adela expresses her wish for a unifying element in India to prevent her from adopting the condescending attitude of other Englishwomen. The group ventures into the first cave, which quickly becomes cramped as the villagers trail behind them. Mrs. Moore, feeling claustrophobic, experiences a moment of terror when something hits her face. She is haunted by the cave’s echo, reducing all sounds to a uniform “boum”. Upon exiting, she discovers it was a baby who struck her face. Mrs. Moore, still unnerved, opts out of visiting the next cave but encourages Adela to proceed with Aziz. To avoid the previous crowding, Aziz bars the villagers from entering the next set of caves. As Mrs. Moore attempts to write to her other children, she is haunted by the echo from the cave, causing her to sink into a state of despondency and indifference.

chapter 15

The group, comprised of Aziz, Adela, and their guide, embarks on their journey to higher caves. As they ascend, Aziz is largely engrossed in planning breakfast while Adela grapples with her new-found revelation that she doesn't love Ronny. She proceeds to inquire about Aziz's marital status and the number of wives he has, leaving him taken aback by the latter question. Aziz seeks momentary solace in a cave, and Adela soon ventures into another.

chapter 16

Aziz comes out of the cave to see only the tour guide. A car's noise is heard, and when Aziz inquires about Adela, he’s told she ventured into a cave. He reprimands the guide for not monitoring her and they both call out to her. Frustrated, Aziz strikes the guide who flees. Aziz then spots Adela chatting with a lady near the car, at the bottom of the hills. He finds Adela's damaged field-glasses, takes them, and heads back to the camp. He's thrilled to see Fielding, who came by Miss Derek's vehicle. Aziz sends someone to guide Miss Derek to the camp, but she and Adela have left for Chandrapore. Despite Aziz's cheerfulness, Fielding senses Adela isn't fine. Aziz has chosen to forget the uncomfortable conversation about polygamy with Adela. He has subtly altered the memory of the trip. Fielding, feeling the women have been impolite to Aziz, urges him for more details. Without realizing he is distorting the truth, Aziz tells Fielding that the guide accompanied Adela to the vehicle. During the elephant ride back to the train, Fielding reckons Aziz must have spent a huge amount of money on the trip. They board the train back to Chandrapore and once they reach, they are met by Mr. Haq, the police inspector, who arrests Aziz. Panicking, Aziz tries to escape, but Fielding restrains him and tries to calm him, promising to resolve the situation. They step onto the platform where Mr. Turton tells Fielding to stay while Aziz gets taken to jail.

chapter 17

Fielding is told by an infuriated and courageous Mr. Turton that Adela has been "insulted", implying a sexual assault, in the Marabar Caves. The complaint comes directly from Adela. Fielding staunchly defends Aziz, asserting his innocence. Turton reveals there will be a casual meeting at the club that evening to dissect the allegations. When Fielding doesn't show the same fury as his fellow Englishmen, Turton is incensed, particularly as Adela is currently unwell. As he returns to his home, Turton gazes at every passing Indian with a smug sense of indignation.

chapter 18

Superintendent McBryde meets Aziz at the prison in a polite manner. He holds a belief that the Indian character is prone to crime due to the climate, which he feels excuses their behavior. He meets with Fielding to share the details of Aziz's case. He alleges that Adela accused Aziz of following her into a cave and making inappropriate actions towards her. She retaliated by hitting him with her field glasses, breaking the strap. The police found the broken glasses on Aziz, which McBryde presents to Fielding. Fielding is keen to get Adela's confirmation of the incident but Adela is too sick to be questioned. McBryde seeks permission from Major Callendar which is declined. Meanwhile, Mahmoud Ali and Hamidullah visit to discuss the case with Aziz. Despite the accusations, Fielding remains unconvinced of Aziz's guilt. McBryde attempts to present a letter from a brothel discovered in Aziz's house as further evidence. Fielding, however, dismisses this, admitting that he too frequented brothels at Aziz's age. A police officer introduces more evidence from Aziz's room, including photographs of women. Fielding however clarifies that they are pictures of Aziz's wife and requests to meet with Aziz.

chapter 19

After meeting Hamidullah near McBryde's office, Fielding experiences anxiety while Hamidullah seems cool and accepting. They discuss plans for Aziz's legal defense and bail arrangements. Fielding, discouraged by Hamidullah's practicality and inconsistencies in Aziz's narrative, reassures Hamidullah of his loyalty, though he wishes he didn't have to pick sides. Back at the college, Fielding is met by Professor Godbole who presents several minor university concerns. Upon asking if Godbole is aware of Aziz's situation, Godbole redirects the conversation. When pressed further to express his view on Aziz's guilt or innocence, Godbole philosophically suggests that the wrong committed at the caves was executed equally by all involved, including Aziz, Fielding, himself, his students, and even Adela. This interpretation agitates Fielding as it blurs the line between right and wrong. Godbole further explains that both good and evil are God's aspects, as God is found in the good and missing in the evil. He then moves the conversation elsewhere. In the afternoon, Fielding pays a visit to Aziz, who seems devastated and inarticulate. Leaving Aziz, Fielding pens a letter to Adela.

chapter 20

At the English club, the ladies sympathize with Adela's plight and regret their earlier behavior towards her. In an effort to atone, Mrs. Turton, who had previously ignored Mrs. Blakiston, now stands by her. Mr. Turton soothes the ladies, who are worried about their safety. After the women depart, Turton addresses the men. Despite the group's outcry over the potential danger to women and children, he tries to maintain impartiality. A drunk soldier suggests military intervention, but Turton insists on normal behavior. The soldier brings up an Indian he once played polo with and spoke highly of. Major Callendar reports that Adela is well again. He sits with the soldier and attempts to instigate Fielding. He spreads rumors that Adela's servant and Godbole were bribed to stay away from the caves and accuses Aziz of instructing villagers to stifle Mrs. Moore. Callendar openly hints at Fielding's association with Aziz, but Fielding doesn't rise to the bait. Callendar proposes calling in troops, but Turton opposes this. When Ronny enters, the men rise to greet him, viewing him as a martyr. However, Fielding stays seated. The soldier points out Fielding’s impoliteness and Turton confronts him. Fielding declares Aziz's innocence and says that he will resign from his post in India if Aziz is convicted and withdraws from the club immediately. Turton is enraged, but Ronny advises him to let Fielding leave.

chapter 21

Fielding travels towards Chandrapore, coming across children getting ready for Mohurram, a yearly Muslim celebration honoring Mohammed's grandsons. He encounters Aziz's companions who have arranged for a renewed bail plea for Aziz and employed a renowned lawyer from Calcutta who is known for his anti-British sentiments. Later in the night, Fielding feels a strong desire to converse with Godbole. However, the professor is fast asleep. Shortly after, Godbole leaves for a fresh employment opportunity.

chapter 22

Adela, recovering at the McBrydes’, grapples with the physical pain of sunburn and cactus spines as well as her confusing emotions. She recalls the cave incident, insisting she was not touched, but is disturbed by a plaguing echo. Adela yearns for comfort from Mrs. Moore. Once deemed better, Ronny takes her home. McBryde and Ronny reveal the chaos caused by the festival procession and that Das will preside over her case. A letter from Fielding, asserting Dr. Aziz's innocence, is also shown to her, heightening her uncertainty. Back home, Mrs. Moore's withdrawal disappoints Adela. Mrs. Moore cryptically acknowledges Adela's echo and foresees its permanence, adding to Adela's distress. Expressing her desire to depart India early and her apathy towards marriage, Mrs. Moore also shocks everyone by refusing to testify in the trial. When Mrs. Moore exits, Adela questions Aziz's guilt, to which Ronny denies any confirmation from Mrs. Moore about Aziz's innocence. Despite his attempts to dissuade her, Adela remains unsure. Upon her return, Mrs. Moore casually affirms Aziz's innocence due to his good character, leaving Adela torn between her own doubts and the efforts of those supporting her. Ronny decides it's best for his mother to leave India swiftly.

chapter 23

The spouse of the lieutenant-governor extends an invite to Mrs. Moore to use her cabin for a voyage back to England, since no other accommodations are available. Ronny is thrilled at the prospect of his name being recognized by the lieutenant-governor. Although Mrs. Moore yearns for home, she finds no happiness in the prospect due to her spiritual indifference. She acknowledges the existence of eternal forces, yet remains detached from them, a change stemming from her Marabar Caves encounter. In her view, the echo she experienced in the cave was a selfish entity predating existence itself. Since then, she feels a selfishness within herself, even resenting the attention bestowed upon Adela. However, Mrs. Moore enjoys her trip to Bombay. As she observes the scenes outside her window, she laments not having fully experienced India. In her eyes, Bombay seems to ridicule her for believing that the Marabar Caves encapsulated the essence of India, as she realizes that there are a "hundred Indias."

chapter 24

With the onset of the sweltering season, people find refuge indoors. Aziz's trial day arrives, and Adela is escorted to the courthouse by the Turtons. During the journey, Mr. Turton contemplates his relationship with Indians, concluding it isn't them he dislikes, but the complications Englishwomen bring to India. Outside the courthouse, the vehicle is met with disdain from the students. Inside, the English occupants speculate about a potential Indian revolt and Fielding's suspected disloyalty. Ronny trusts his junior, Das, to judge the trial fairly, while Major Callendar expresses his contempt for Indians and a malicious satisfaction at the recent accident of the Nawab Bahadur's grandchild. Throughout, Adela remains quiet, anxious about her impending questioning. When the trial commences, everyone takes their designated seats. Adela notices an Indian servant operating the fan, his demeanor seeming divine and detached from the room's proceedings. Prosecutor McBryde starts off, arguing that the attraction of darker races to lighter ones is scientifically proven, causing an Indian in the audience to retort that Adela is unattractive. This throws Adela off balance, leading to her relocation to the platform for better ventilation. The English follow suit, prompting Amritrao to protest that this intimidates the witnesses. Das supports this, causing all English, except Adela, to return to their seats. Word of the English's public embarrassment spreads outside, resulting in jeers from the crowd. McBryde's accuses Aziz of leading a dual life, both "respectable" and depraved, and of trying to harm Mrs. Moore in the first cave. Mahmoud Ali objects, highlighting Mrs. Moore's absence, and accuses Ronny of shipping her away because she knew of Aziz's innocence. Ignoring Das's efforts to maintain order, Mahmoud Ali storms out of the courtroom, labelling the trial a sham. The crowd starts chanting "Mrs. Moore" in unison, altering the pronunciation to sound like "Esmiss Esmoor." When Adela testifies, she visualizes her day at Marabar, which seems more appealing in retrospect. Upon being asked if Aziz followed her into the cave, she takes a moment to reflect. Unable to envision Aziz pursuing her, she admits to her mistake and withdraws all her accusations. The courtroom descends into chaos; Callendar tries to call for a medical recess, but Adela confirms her withdrawal. A furious Mrs. Turton hurls insults at Adela. Finally, Das declares Aziz's release.

chapter 25

Adela finds herself being swept up by a wave of Indians towards the exit. Fielding inquires about her destination and, after receiving a lackluster reply, grudgingly escorts her to his carriage for her protection. His students, gathered around the vehicle, persuade the pair to board and proceed to pull them through the bustling town. Adela is adorned with flowers by some Indians, although others are critical of the English solidarity. Chandrapore's roads are jam-packed preventing the English from returning to the civil station. Adela and Fielding are drawn back to the college amidst cut phone lines and absent servants. Fielding encourages Adela to rest and he too lies down. Simultaneously, Aziz, during his triumphant march, shouts out for Fielding, who he feels has forsaken him. Mahmoud Ali directs the parade to the hospital to save the Nawab Bahadur's grandson, having heard Callendar boasting about his torture. Despite Nawab Bahadur advocating restraint, the mob heads to the hospital. Crisis is evaded thanks to Panna Lal, who under the misconception that the mob intends to punish him for testifying for the English, behaves foolishly to appease the agitated men and fetches Nawab Bahadur's grandson for them. Nawab Bahadur prevents further calamity by delivering a lengthy speech renouncing his loyalist title, inviting Aziz and his posse to his residence for an evening celebration. The sweltering heat of the season forces everyone to retreat indoors for rest.

chapter 26

Fielding talks to Adela, despite his reluctance. He only engages when she discloses her illness—an echo that she's been experiencing since the Marabar Caves trip or possibly from when she heard Godbole’s song. He had always suspected her to be ill or hallucinating. Fielding respects Adela's honesty about her inability to articulate her courtroom vision. He even apologizes for his previous rudeness towards Ronny. When Adela inquires about Aziz's perception of her, Fielding uncomfortably reflects on Aziz's disdain for her physical appearance. They entertain the idea that the guide or another person might've assaulted Adela. Fielding’s interaction with Adela displeases Hamidullah, who blames her for Aziz's turmoil. Despite this, Fielding invites Adela to stay at the college while he joins Aziz's friends for a victory party at Nawab Bahadur’s house. Hamidullah, however, wishes to avoid Adela due to her lack of emotion. Hamidullah feels relieved when Ronny arrives while they're debating what to do with Adela. Fielding steps outside to meet Ronny and learns of Mrs. Moore's death during her trip back to England, with her burial at sea. Adela, upset about Mrs. Moore's death, asks to stay at the college, which Fielding agrees to after consulting with Ronny. Hamidullah, however, shows hostility towards Ronny. Fielding and Hamidullah then head to Nawab Bahadur’s celebration. En route, Fielding overhears Hamidullah suggesting a fine of twenty thousand rupees for Adela. This distresses him, as he worries about the potential loss of her money and possibly her engagement to Ronny.

chapter 27

"Is emotion a sack of potatoes, so much the pound, to be measured out? Am I a machine?" At the end of the night, the revelers from the victory celebration are resting on Nawab Bahadur’s rooftop. Fielding and Aziz engage in an extensive dialogue. Aziz believes that Fielding will counsel him against demanding Adela to pay any damages. However, Aziz no longer desires the admiration of the English for his gallantry. Fielding confesses his change of heart, admitting he thinks Adela behaved courageously and her suffering is already enough. Aziz disregards Adela due to her lack of physical attractiveness, which angers Fielding. Ultimately, Aziz decides to seek Mrs. Moore's advice on his next move. Fielding suggests that Aziz's feelings are imbalanced: Adela is the one who saved him, while Mrs. Moore left, yet Aziz continues to love Mrs. Moore instead of Adela. Fielding's perceived materialistic perspective, which equates love with quantity, irks Aziz. Fielding discloses Mrs. Moore's death to Aziz, but Hamidullah, eavesdropping on their conversation, assures Aziz that Fielding is only jesting. Consequently, Aziz takes the news lightly.

chapter 28

Rumours circulate in Chandrapore that Ronny murdered his mother for trying to rescue Aziz. Two separate graves are believed to hold Mrs. Moore's remains, with the locals leaving tributes at both sites. The English community remains silent about the whispers. Aware of his lack of compassion towards his mother before her death, Ronny blames her for persisting to cause issues with her death myth. He wishes for the problematic Adela to exit India as well. He's still engaged to her, hoping she'll recognize that marrying him would destroy his career and thus, retreat gracefully.

chapter 29

The high-ranking official comes to Chandrapore to assess the aftermath of the Marabar trial. He praises Fielding for his integrity during the proceedings. Adela remains at the college, having more discussions with Fielding who assists in drafting her apology to Aziz. However, the apology doesn't meet the mark as Adela, despite being fair, doesn't have a genuine affection for India and its residents. Tensions rise between Aziz and Fielding over future plans and Adela's compensation. Fielding brings up Mrs. Moore, which leads Aziz to concede and request Adela to cover only his legal costs. As foreseen by Aziz, his kindness doesn't earn him any respect from the English who will persist in believing in his guilt. Ronny calls off his engagement to Adela during a visit to the college. Following this, Adela expresses regret to Fielding for the chaos she's caused. She concedes that she and Ronny should never have considered marrying. Like old friends, they converse about love's complexities. Fielding revisits the cave incident with Adela, who indifferently confirms that the guide was the perpetrator. She believes only Mrs. Moore could know the truth, possibly through telepathy. Their conversations continue, marked by a vague sense of the infinite and indescribable in the universe. Adela sails back to England and during her journey, she decides to connect with Mrs. Moore's other children, Ralph and Stella, upon her arrival.

chapter 30

Aziz’s trial brings Hindus and Muslims in Chandrapore closer. Mr. Das approaches Aziz at the hospital, requesting him to contribute a poem for his predominantly Hindu magazine, hoping to expand its readership. Aziz accepts, but his attempts at writing veer toward extreme sadness or harsh satire. This task leads him to envision a successful India, and he resolves to befriend Hindus and despise the British, toughening his character. Aziz reveals to Hamidullah his intention to work in a Hindu state. Hamidullah argues that the remuneration wouldn't suffice and admonishes Aziz for not seeking compensation from Adela. Hamidullah then shares a rumor about an alleged affair between Fielding and Adela, which infuriates Aziz, making him feel betrayed. Once Aziz calms down, he and Hamidullah plan to visit the women in Hamidullah’s family who live in seclusion. Hamidullah notes that his female relatives contemplated abandoning seclusion during Aziz’s trial but haven't done so yet. He advises Aziz to consider writing about the Indian woman realistically for his poem.

chapter 31

Aziz becomes convinced of the rumored affair between Adela and Fielding. On Fielding's return from a meeting, Aziz indirectly tries to discuss the rumor by bringing up an affair between McBryde and Miss Derek. Fielding ignores the gossip. Aziz finally voices his concern about the impact of the alleged affair on Fielding's reputation, hoping for a denial from Fielding. Instead, Fielding reprimands Aziz for being overly concerned with reputation. Aziz, assuming the affair to be true, confronts Fielding. Fielding reacts angrily, leaving Aziz regretful and agreeing to dinner that night. Fielding encounters Turton at the post office, who insists on Fielding's attendance at the English club at six. Fielding notices new officials replacing the old ones at the club, but the discriminatory atmosphere remains the same. At dinner, Fielding shares his upcoming England trip for official work. The conversation shifts to poetry, with Fielding expressing a desire for Aziz to be a religious poet. Aziz inquires if Fielding will see Adela in England, to which Fielding casually responds that he might. This prompts Aziz to leave abruptly. Fielding apologizes for his morning outburst, but Aziz departs feeling low, fearing that Fielding is marrying Adela for her wealth. He plans a trip with his children, intending to return after Fielding's departure to England.

chapter 32

Fielding's vessel sails through the Mediterranean, finally anchoring in Venice. He experiences a sense of treachery as he rediscovers his respect for architectural design. In contrast to the irregular temples and uneven landscapes of India, the structures in Venice seem in sync with nature. Fielding senses a rift between him and his Indian acquaintances due to their lack of appreciation for design that has "escaped muddle." Upon reaching England during the spring season, a romantic spirit is revived within Fielding.

chapter 33

Aziz, now a physician for the Rajah, lives several miles west of Chandrapore in Mau, a Hindu city governed by Indians. Here, Professor Godbole is the education minister. During a midnight celebration in the royal palace for Krishna's birth, Godbole steers a small choir in hymns. Despite the crowd's size and confusion, a peaceful joy prevails as they all appear similar in their happiness. The choir members seem to merge with the universe, radiating love. Godbole has a fleeting thought of Mrs. Moore and a wasp he once spotted on a stone. He attempts to mesh these separate entities into his concept of universal unity, but is unsuccessful. As midnight nears, the crowd, including Godbole, starts dancing and shouting. The old, ailing Rajah arrives to witness the birth ceremony. At the stroke of midnight, Krishna, the symbol of Infinite Love, is born. The Rajah, filled with joy, is escorted to meet Aziz after presiding over the birth. The crowd carries on with their celebration, engaging in practical jokes, muddled revelry and games to honor Krishna.

chapter 34

On the journey home, Aziz unexpectedly meets Godbole who ecstatically informs him about Fielding's arrival at the European guest house in Mau on official duties related to education. Aziz is pleased with his life in Mau, a place he found through Godbole, where the only disputes are amongst Hindus and not involving Muslims or English. He is accepted here, despite being a Muslim, due to his respectful nature. Aziz has no desire to meet Fielding. He stopped corresponding with Fielding after interpreting a portion of a letter from England to mean that Fielding had wed Adela Quested. Aziz finally feels a strong sense of Indian identity fueled by his disdain for the English. He enjoys his life outside of British India, lives with his children, and composes poetry. His verses focus on the need to end the purdah and to shape a new motherland. Colonel Maggs, the English political representative, slightly disrupts Aziz's life as he is under orders to keep an eye on Aziz, who is considered a potential offender. Upon reaching home, Aziz finds an official note from Fielding, forwarded by Godbole. The note announces Fielding's arrival, along with his wife and brother-in-law, also requesting certain amenities and guidance. Aziz, disinterested, rips up the note.

chapter 35

Aziz holds a shrine in his garden to honor a young Muslim martyr who once freed all prisoners in a local fort. This shrine means a lot to Aziz, given his own experience of imprisonment. Following receipt of Fielding's message, Aziz and his children pay a visit to another part of the shrine. After exploring the shrine and nearby mosque, they take in the view from the old fort. It's the monsoon season and the filled water tanks suggest a good harvest. As they see a group of prisoners passing by, Aziz's children inquire who among them will be set free during the Chief God's annual procession, a Hindu tradition. Amidst this conversation, Aziz conceals the death of the Rajah until the end of the festivities, contrary to the guard's inquiry about the Rajah's health. Unexpectedly, the children spot Fielding and his brother-in-law at the shrine. They're driven out by a swarm of bees, resulting in a sting for Fielding's relative. As Aziz attends to the sting, Fielding confronts him about ignoring his letters. Their conversation is cut short by the onset of heavy rain, prompting them to rush for Fielding's carriage. Once at the carriage, Aziz unknowingly refers to Fielding's brother-in-law as "Mr. Quested", leaving Fielding startled because he married Stella Moore, not Adela Quested. Realizing his error, Aziz feels both embarrassed and relieved. Fielding, however, blames the misunderstanding on Mahmoud Ali, revealing that he even referred to Stella as “Heaslop’s sister” in correspondence which further irritates Aziz. Despite the cleared misunderstanding, Aziz asks Fielding to avoid him in Mau, expressing feelings of betrayal. Contrarily, he forgives Mahmoud Ali due to his affection for him. Aziz rallies his children and declares his disinterest in English friendships. This experience leaves Aziz feeling exhilarated as he returns home.

chapter 36

Aziz, remembering his pledge to provide ointment for Fielding’s brother-in-law's bee stings, fetches some from Mohammed Latif and decides to personally deliver it under the pretext of a casual ride. The Procession of the God is about to begin, with the two royal contenders present at the palace, yet they refrain from advancing towards the throne. Aziz bumps into Godbole and shares the news of Fielding’s marriage to Stella Moore. Godbole reveals he already knew and hadn’t mistaken Fielding's wife for Adela Quested. Aziz suppresses his irritation at Godbole due to the ongoing festival. While on his way to the guesthouse, Aziz becomes bitter seeing the English tourists observing the Hindu festival distantly from a boat. He interprets their sightseeing as a subtle domination over India. He reaches the unguarded guesthouse and curiously explores the rooms, finding and reading a letter from Heaslop to Fielding and one from Adela to Stella, both of which annoy him due to their personal tone. His frustration prompts him to hit the piano, alerting Ralph Moore. Aziz recovers and asks to see Ralph's bee stings, but Ralph recoils from him, accusing Aziz of acting unkindly. Their conversation is interrupted by a sorrowful cry from the festive crowd. Aziz prepares to leave, shaking Ralph’s hand without much thought and realizes that Ralph is no longer scared of him. He asks Ralph if he can discern a friend in a stranger, to which Ralph responds affirmatively. This makes Aziz label Ralph as an Oriental, which triggers a memory of him saying the same to Mrs. Moore in the mosque. He fears a repetition of past events and spontaneously invites Ralph for a brief boat ride. Out on the water, Aziz slips back into his hospitable nature, describing the Hindu festival vividly. Ralph spots something that looks like the Rajah floating in the water. Aziz isn't sure what it is but thinks it could be an image of the old Rajah visible from a single viewpoint on the water. This experience makes Aziz feel more like a guest than a host. Ralph suggests they move closer to the Procession of the God, where fireworks are being launched. Despite his fear of interrupting the festival, Aziz agrees. Godbole spots them and starts gesturing frantically. Then, Aziz’s boat hits Fielding’s boat causing Stella, Fielding, Aziz, and Ralph to fall into the water. The climax of the Hindu festival coincides with their fall, creating a whirlpool of their bodies, ceremony props, letters, and oars.

chapter 37

Following their near-drowning experience, Aziz and Fielding rekindle their old camaraderie. They venture into the Mau forests for a ride before Fielding leaves, both aware that they won't meet again. During their outing, Aziz hands Fielding a letter for Adela, expressing gratitude for her courage during the court proceedings. Fielding, despite his reservations, brings up the topic of Hinduism, observing that Stella and Ralph seem increasingly attracted to the faith and Mau. Irritated by the discussion on Hinduism, Aziz shifts the conversation towards politics. Their political views have diverged more than ever, with Fielding accepting the necessity of the Empire, regardless of its civility. Aziz, on the other hand, detests the Empire, foreseeing an independent India in the next generation, where he and Fielding could potentially be friends. They hug, and Fielding questions why their friendship can't be immediate since they both desire it. However, it seems as if the very earth and sky rise to separate them, proclaiming, “No, not yet.”

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