- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singer
- S. Janaki
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Vidiyum Varai Kaathiru
- Movie release year
- 1981
- Lyrics added on
- 26 Dec 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song revolves around a lively, competitive yet appreciative dialogue between vocal music and classical dance. The singer challenges the dancer to display her best facial expressions (Abhinaya) and footwork, while asserting that Bharatanatyam dance is incomplete without vocal music. Referencing historic literary icons like Sivagami and King Mamallan, the lyrics celebrate the harmony of song and movement. Ultimately, the song emphasizes how both art forms elevate each other, enchanting nature and listeners alike.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Simile / Metaphor (Upamai)
“Maanaaga meenaaga mai ezhudhiya vizhigal malara”
Compares eyes to a deer ('Maanaaga') and a fish ('Meenaaga') adorned with kohl.
Edhugai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Pennaada iru kann thanaada / Paadhangal jadhigalum payila”
Repetition of 'du'/'da' sound in second position across rhythmic lines to build cadence.
Rhetorical Question
“Paatindri yedhamma bharathakalai”
Challenges the listener on the absolute necessity of song in classical dance.
Monaai (Alliteration)
“Pudhumaiyaana nadanam thogai aada / Arumaiyaana geetham paavai paada”
Repetition of the 'P' consonant sound at the start of words within lines.
Did you know?
Trivia
The song is composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja for the 1981 thriller-drama film 'Vidiyum Varai Kaathiru', directed by K. Bhagyaraj. The lyrics by Vaali reference the iconic historical novel 'Sivagamiyin Sabatham' by Kalki Krishnamurthy through the characters Mamallan and Sivagami.
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