- Lyricist
- Kannadasan
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- V. Kumar
- Movie name
- Nadagame Ulagam
- Movie release year
- 1979
- Lyrics added on
- 26 Jul 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song from 'Nadagame Ulagam' (1979) is a powerful social commentary written by Kannadasan, questioning societal inequalities, class conflicts, and greed. It asks why there are deep divisions and two distinct classes—the wealthy capitalist and the struggling worker—in a world created by God. The song points out the paradox of a society that prides itself on righteous values, motherhood, and scriptures preaching 'Truth Alone Triumphs', yet fails to address the real-world hunger and plight of the poor. It criticizes how money drives human behavior and causes moral corruption, stripping men of their hearts and conscience. Calling out the foolishness of living solely for material wealth, the song ends with a passionate call for social justice, unity, and equality among all human beings.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Monai (Initial Alliteration)
“Aandavan boomiyil / Aayiram baedhangal yen”
Matching initial vowel sound 'Aa' in consecutive words in the line for rhythmic harmony.
Rhetorical Question (Vinaa)
“Yen ingu erandu vargangal”
Asking a philosophical question to provoke moral reflection about class divide rather than expecting a literal answer.
Parallelism / Yugmam
“Iruppadhum panathukkum / Parapathum panathukkum”
Symmetrical structure contrasting 'Iruppadhum' (living/existing) and 'Parapathum' (flying/racing) to emphasize life's obsession with money.
Irony / Antithesis
“Vaaimaiyae vellum / Endru vazhikattum yedu / Vaazhkaikku udhavaadhu / Engindra podhu”
Contrasting lofty ideological values ('Vaaimaiyae vellum') with the harsh practical reality where scriptures fail to aid practical living.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Nadagame Ulagam' (1979) features music composed by V. Kumar, a maestro known for his subtle melodies and collaboration with director K. Balachander. Sung by the veteran playback singer P. Susheela, this track showcases Kannadasan's signature socialist philosophy, echoing themes of social reform and economic equality frequently present in Tamil cinema during the late 1970s.
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