- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singer
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Kadhal Oviyam
- Movie release year
- 1982
- Lyrics added on
- 12 Sept 2018
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is an intense, emotional invocation sung by the protagonist, a blind musician, addressing Goddess Saraswati (the deity of art and knowledge) and the divine power of music. He proclaims that true music possesses cosmic power—it can sway the skies, wake sleeping breezes, and transcend human suffering. As literal or metaphorical flames engulf him, he remains steadfast, believing that the inner light of his art cannot be consumed by fire and that divine grace will ultimately prevail.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Imagery
“Malaril urangum poongaatru / Adhanai ezhuppum en paattu”
Evokes vivid sensory visualization of a breeze sleeping inside a flower awakened by sound.
Onomatopoeia
“Padapada padavena”
Uses rhythmic sound words to mimic the crackling and fluttering nature of aggressive flames.
Rhetorical Question
“En sangeedham poi endru / Yaar sonnadhu”
Challenges the notion that music is powerless or false.
Contrast / Irony
“Indha veppam ennai / Enna seiyyum / Sandhanangal poosumoo”
Compares burning, destructive fire to soothing sandalwood paste to highlight spiritual immunity.
Did you know?
Trivia
In the film 'Kadhal Oviyam' (1982), directed by P. Bharathiraja, this song forms part of a dramatic musical climax. Composed by Ilaiyaraaja with lyrics by Vairamuthu, KJ Yesudas's powerful vocal rendition captures the blind protagonist's intense devotion and musical passion.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Kadhal Oviyam
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.