In A Passage to India, efforts to forge friendships are frequently hindered by cultural differences and the demands of public duties. These duties are especially evident among the Anglo-Indian officials in Chandrapore. Characters such as Turton, Callendar, McBryde, and Ronny often place their professional obligations above their personal wishes. For example, the Turtons' "Bridge Party" is more of a diplomatic endeavor than a sincere attempt to connect personally. McBryde, the police superintendent, prosecutes Aziz purely as part of his official role, without letting personal feelings sway his decision. Ronny breaks off his engagement with Adela partly because her actions during the trial are seen as scandalous by the Anglo-Indian community. Marrying her would upset his social circle, which disapproves of her courtroom behavior.

Cyril Fielding, the head of the government college, stands out as the sole British character who acts based on personal beliefs rather than public duty. The Anglo-Indian authorities find it essential to maintain a unified public view of Aziz's guilt. By defending Aziz, Fielding goes against the expected public behavior and is accused of "letting down the side," leading to his expulsion from the English club in Chandrapore.

McBryde's affair with Miss Derek, revealed later in the narrative, is a rare instance where another British official lets personal desires take precedence over his public image. However, the consequences of his choice remain unexplored.

Dr. Aziz struggles between his public position as a doctor at a government hospital and his personal dreams. When he attempts to align his private desires with public obligations, "Trouble after trouble encountered him, because he had challenged the spirit of the Indian earth, which tries to keep men in compartments." Professor Godbole is the exception, as he seamlessly blends public and private life. For Godbole, they are simply different facets of a single existence. His prayers, for instance, fulfill both private and public roles, blurring the lines between the two.