Choma is an untouchable bonded-labourer in a village who is working along with his family for a landlord, as he belongs to a backward class. Due to his social status, he is not allowed to till his own land, something that he desires most. Though he managed to rear a pair of bullocks that he found straying in the forest, he cannot use them to till the land. He comes in contact of Christian missionaries who try to convert him giving him the lure of the land, but Choma does not want to let go of his faith. He releases the fury that fate has beset on him, by beating his drum.

Ratnamma, a virtuous woman from an agricultural family, marries a middle-class farmer. Despite a happy life, they face societal pressure due to infertility. Enduring humiliation, Ratnamma continues to love her family. Shocked when her husband brings another woman home, she leaves. Twenty-five years later, she returns after her husband's death, facing hardships to protect the property from his cunning cousins. Struggling with government offices to register the property in her name, Ratnamma ultimately decides to give it to the children of the other woman. Despite her rightful ownership, she selflessly sacrifices for her husband's children, winning everyone's hearts.