Dharma(1998)
Dharma is a 1998 Indian Tamil-language action drama film directed by Keyaar. The film stars Vijayakanth as the titular character and Preetha Vijayakumar as Sharmila. It is a remake of the 1997 Hindi film Ziddi. The story follows a short-tempered man who kills a rowdy for molesting his sister and later becomes a gangster who punishes criminals. The film features a soundtrack composed by Ilaiyaraaja. Critical reception was mixed, with Kalki magazine giving a negative review for lacking freshness. The Hindu noted Vijayakanth's energetic performance but called Preetha Vijayakumar a showpiece. The film was released on 9 July 1998.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 9 July 1998
- Director
- Keyaar
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 32m
- Rating
- 5.0/10
Storyline
Dharma is a man who cannot tolerate injustice. When a rowdy molests his sister, he kills him in public and goes to jail. After his release, he becomes a gangster who only targets criminals. But his best friend Ranjith has a secret plan for revenge that will destroy Dharma's family.
“Righteousness comes at a cost.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Dharma
Cast reunions in this film: Ilayaraja & Manorama (60 films together), Vijayakanth & Ilayaraja (50 films together), Ilayaraja & Jaishankar (34 films together), Ilayaraja & Vinu Chakravarthy (34 films together), Manorama & Jaishankar (27 films together), and Ponnambalam & Ilayaraja (14 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Dharma Durai' before being shortened to just 'Dharma'.
- It was the only film directed by Kothandam Ramaiah under the pseudonym 'Keyaar'.
- The movie is a remake of the 1997 Hindi film 'Ziddi', starring Sunny Deol.
- Actress Preetha Vijayakumar made her Tamil film debut with this movie.
- The climax fight scene was shot over 15 days at a specially constructed set.
- Despite being an action film, it featured a full comedy track by actor Vadivelu.
- The film's release clashed with another major Vijayakanth film, 'Thalaimurai'.
- Ilaiyaraaja composed the music, but the film did not have a major hit song.