Dharma Durai is a 2016 Indian Tamil-language slice-of-life drama film directed by Seenu Ramasamy and produced by R. K. Suresh.
However, Dharmadurai's brothers demanded a large dowry, including gold ornaments and a significant sum of money, which Paraman refused.
Subhashini encourages Dharmadurai to reconcile with his family, suggesting he return to his village to make amends and share the news of their upcoming marriage.
While recuperating, Dharmadurai receives a call from Subhashini, urging him to return promptly, as both she and their unborn child eagerly await his arrival.
In November 2015, Seenu Ramasamy announced that he would direct Vijay Sethupathi in a film to be produced by R. K. Suresh of Studio 9 Productions.
[6] The makers of Dharma Durai disclosed that they were in talks with Lakshmi Menon, Aishwarya Rajesh and Gayathrie to play three of the film's four leading female roles.
[7] Production of the film commenced in mid-December 2015, with actresses Tamannaah Bhatia, Sshivada, Aishwarya Rajesh and Srushti Dange confirmed as part of the cast.
Gautaman Bhaskaran of Hindustan Times gave 3.5/5 stars and commented, "Scripted with subtlety and helmed without melodrama, Dharmadurai is far better than any Tamil work one has seen in a long time", expressing that the film features strong performances and picturesque cinematography, telling the story of a former doctor dealing with family betrayal and personal struggles, albeit with some coincidental and preachy elements.
[13] Sreedhar Pillai of The First Post, in his review, stated, "Dharma Durai is a feel-good family entertainer that works to a large extent due to Vijay Sethupathi, an actor of substance" and pointed out that strong performances from the cast are hindered by a thin plot and commercial twists.
[14] S. Saraswath of Rediff.com rated the film 3/5, calling it, "An engaging screenplay, stunning music, wonderful performances, and the perfect rural ambiance make Dharmadurai a fun watch."
He opened the film as a poignant tale of family, redemption, and self-discovery, albeit with some flaws in the screenplay, elevated by strong performances and a captivating rural setting.
[16] M. Suganth of The Times of India rated the film 3/5 stars and conveyed that despite its affecting moments and strong performances, it is hindered by a slow narrative and synthetic sub-plots, preventing it from fully realizing its potential as an emotional roller coaster.
[17] Anupama Subramanian of Deccan Chronicle stated, "Barring a few dull moments, Seenu Ramasamy's Dharma Durai is a feel-good movie," and noted that it follows the journey of a once-promising doctor turned alcoholic as he seeks redemption and reconnects with his past, showcasing strong performances and emotional depth amidst occasional narrative shortcomings.