- Lyricist
- A. Maruthakasi
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- R. Sudharsanam
- Movie name
- Thilakam
- Movie release year
- 1960
- Lyrics added on
- 19 May 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This playful and satirical song from the 1960 movie 'Thilakam' teases a wealthy, aristocratic gentleman ('Minor Sir') who pretends to be sophisticated yet is easily entranced by the allure of a graceful dancer. The lyrics humorously critique his empty purse, false posture of asceticism, and hypocritical behavior as he attempts to woo someone as unattainable as lightning in the sky. Through witty phrasing and rhythm, the song contrasts outward pretense with inner desire, cautioning that a deceitful man who chases fickle pleasures will ultimately end up looking foolish.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamai)
“Aadi varum poongodi azhzginilae”
Compares the graceful dancer to a delicate flowering creeper ('poongodi') swaying in the breeze.
Simile (Upamai)
“Ahaa alai polae pinnalae”
Compares the gentleman's restless mind drifting behind her to the rhythm of ocean waves ('alai polae').
Hyperbole & Imagery
“Andharathu minnalai sondhangolla enninaal”
Describes the absurdity of trying to possess an unattainable beauty by comparing it to catching lightning from the sky.
Rhyme & Alliteration (Emonai / Ethirhai)
“Aasai avalai pinni jaadaigalum panni”
Uses rhyming endings and rhythmic syllable structures like 'pinni' and 'panni' to enhance the musicality.
Did you know?
Trivia
The film 'Thilakam' (1960) featured music composed by R. Sudharsanam with lyrics penned by A. Maruthakasi. P. Susheela's energetic rendition perfectly complements the satirical tone targeting the 'Minor Sir' persona—a classic archetype in mid-20th-century Tamil cinema representing flamboyant wealthy heirs.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Thilakam
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.