Hadji Murad is one of the legendary warriors of Chechnya and Dagestan, a former Avar naib. He fought for the freedom and honor of his people and plagued Russian forces for years. However, he was ousted due to a leadership rivalry and blood feud with Imam Shamil, and his family was taken hostage. His entire life is shaped by the desire to rescue his mother, wife, and children (especially his son Yusuf) being held as hostages. To this end, he seeks refuge with the Russian Empire, which he hates, only to realize that they intend to use him merely as a pawn. Refusing to bow to the deceptions and intrigues around him, Hadji Murad embarks on a final, suicidal escape and dies fighting in a manner worthy of his legend.
Born in a small Avar aul, he grew up with the khans in their palace. When the ghazavat movement began, he eventually took his place beside Shamil, but due to the killing of the old khans and blood feuds, he became estranged from Shamil. He cheated death many times, escaped by jumping off cliffs, during which he broke his leg and remained lame. He also had past hostilities and short-lived alliances with the Russians.
Due to a lame leg, his body sways slightly while walking. He has a slender waist but broad shoulders. His eyes are slightly set apart, black, and piercing. He mostly wears an all-white cherkesska with silver trimmings on the collar, black leggings, and soft shoes. On his head, he wears a shaved, tall papakha with a turban wound around it. With his sun-tanned face and powerful arms, he has an imposing appearance.
Eldar
His bodyguard, whom he trusts more than his own life and treats as a son.
Butler
The young Russian whose sincerity and valor he admires, even if he is on the enemy side.
Şamil
A former friend and now fierce enemy who betrayed him and seeks to swallow him up.
Marya Dmitriyevna
A woman figure he respects and feels affection for.
Mihail Semyonoviç Vorontsov
A power center he has to use but holds absolutely no trust in.