The film stars Sivaji Ganesan, Padmini and K. R. Vijaya, with Nagesh, S. A. Ashokan, V. Nagayya, Manorama and Roja Ramani in supporting roles.

It revolves around a man who faces upheavals in his life as he is caught between his lady-love and his devoted wife.

Sundar's cousin Shanti, who lives with his family and takes care of the entire household, is fond of him and wishes to marry him.

Sivasamy asks Sundar to marry Shanti, but he refuses, revealing that he is in love with Uma.

When Uma's letter informs him that she has decided to marry another person because she is not willing to go against her brother's wishes, an emotionally distraught Sundar becomes bedridden.

Years later, Sundar has become a successful businessman living in Kodaikanal with Shanti and their daughter Geetha; Sivasamy is long dead.

This is the answer Uma wants, having decided that, if Sundar talked about leaving Shanti and Geetha, she would throw herself from the cliff.

The story of Iru Malargal was written by A. C. Tirulokachandar who also directed,[1] and produced by Thambu under Manijeh Cine Productions.

[6] The song "Maharaja Oru Maharani" was the first in Tamil to feature ventriloquism before it was used on a larger scale in Avargal 10 years later.

[16] Kalki lauded the performances of Ganesan, Padmini, Vijaya and Nagayya, but felt the screenplay could have been more concise and certain songs removed.