Kadhal Desam ( ) is a 1996 Indian Tamil-language romance film written and directed by Kathir and produced by K. T. Kunjumon. The film stars Tabu with Vineeth and debutant Abbas in the main leads. The movie marks Tabu's debut in Kollywood. The film also stars with S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, Vadivelu, Chinni Jayanth, Srividya and others are featured in other pivotal characters. K. V. Anand was the cinematographer for the project and A. R. Rahman composed the film's soundtrack and score. The film was released on 13 September 1996 and became a box office success. The film was remade in Bangladeshi Bengali as Narir Mon.

Plot

In Chennai, a traditional rivalry has always existed between the students of Pachaiyappa's and Loyola colleges. Karthik is a poor orphan who studies in Pachaiyappa's, a hobo in a rented room, travels by the bus, hangs out with a number of friends, and is the captain of his football team. He is also a good poet and daydreams about his dream girl. Arun, by contrast, comes from a wealthy family, studies in Loyola, drives his own car, hangs out with numerous friends, and is also the captain of his football team. In a nasty intercollege riot, Arun saves Karthik's life. So in return, Karthik lets Arun win in a soccer game because he thinks Arun cannot take losses easily. Arun realises that the victory is because of Karthik's sacrifice.