- Lyricist
- Ka. Mu. Sheriff
- Singer
- S. Balachander
- Music director
- G. Ramanathan
- Movie name
- Devaki (1951)
- Movie release year
- 1951
- Lyrics added on
- 3 Dec 2025
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song from Devaki (1951) presents a playful yet traditional commentary on mid-20th-century women's liberation and modernism in Tamil society. It contrasts traditional female roles with modern practices such as receiving English education, wearing modern clothing and accessories, driving cars, working office jobs, and participating in governance. While acknowledging the historical oppression of women by selfish men in past generations, the song humorous-yet-firmly asserts that despite all modern social advancements, women still require men as life partners, and the male role as 'husband' or head of household remains irreplaceable.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Adukku Thodar (Repetition for emphasis)
“Pesi pesi pesi pesi pesi pesugindrom”
The word 'Pesi' is repeated five times in line 28 ('Pesi pesi pesi pesi pesi') to emphasize endless, repetitive chatter about women's rights.
Moonaai (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Munnettram endru solli intha naalil / Mugaththil manjal poosaamal powder poosi”
The initial letter 'Mu' is repeated across consecutive lines ('Munnettram' and 'Mugaththil').
Allusion / Adaptation of Proverb
“Thottilai aattum kaiyaalae... Naattaiyae aatchi seithaalum”
The lyrics adapt the famous Tamil idiom 'Thottil aattum kai naattai aalum' (The hand that rocks the cradle rules the nation) directly into poetic verse.
Did you know?
Trivia
The multi-talented S. Balachander not only sang this track, but was also a renowned veena virtuoso, actor, and film director who was known for introducing innovative storytelling techniques and unique musical arrangements in early Tamil cinema.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Devaki (1951)
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.