Chakkaravarthy, chief of the village manages the problems that ensue the villagers. His past is marked by Vijayalakshmi, that he was supposed to marry. Arumugam, a jealous enemy of Chakkaravarthy, challenges him. Chakkaravarthy accepts it as long as he gives him something. Arumugam puts on a fight competition and would only surrender Vijayalakshmi to him in marriage, if he loses. Confident, she orders to win against Arumugam. But Chakkaravarthy loses and Vijayalakshmi sacrifices her life after marrying Arumugam.
Entering the village Vijayalakshmi who has the same name as the old one. Vijayalakshmi is rebellious and defended by Chakkaravarthy when confronted by the villagers. When she is tortured by Arumugam's goons, Chakkaravarthy comes to her rescue.
Dharma Chakkaram was released on Pongal 1997 alongside Minsara Kanavu, Periya Thambi, Iruvar and Bharathi Kannamma.[7] According to Indolink, the film "fared pretty well".[8] Rocky Rajesh won the Cinema Express Award for Best Stunt Director.[9]
Legacy
Following Vijayakanth's death in 2023, Film Companion included the film in their list "7 Vijayakanth Films That Left an Indian Cinema Legacy".[10]