Both plans are the exact same scheme, run by the same fund manager investing in the same stocks and bonds. The difference is that in case of direct mutual funds, there is no broker/distributor commission. Which means, as an investor, you get higher returns from the exact same mutual fund.
You should try sticking to a direct plan, reason being, in regular plans many of the distributors/agents can misguide you in buying the wrong investments, so they get paid a higher commission. A look at the consumer forum will tell you how many people complain after being cheated. However not all agents are fraudulent, but it does not change the fact that their compensation is based on your investment amount.
Investing in a direct plan will demand you to put in some required efforts, but in the long run it will benefit you.