- Lyricist
- Kannadasan
- Singer
- T. M. Soundararajan
- Music director
- Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan
- Movie name
- Thirumal Perumai
- Movie release year
- 1968
- Lyrics added on
- 2 Jun 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This classic devotional composition from Thirumal Perumai (1968) is a profound expression of complete surrender (Saranagati) to Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati. The poet Kannadasan captures the builder's humility, stating that while humans may build the physical structure of the temple (Ananda Nilayam), it is the Almighty's love that breathes life into it by gracing it with His divine presence. The song reflects the philosophy that all human virtues, flaws, relationships, and worldly attachments are governed entirely by Lord Vishnu's grace.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Monaai (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Aanandha nilaiyam ondru amaithu vaithen”
Repetition of the initial 'Aa' sound across words in the line creates a musical and smooth rhythmic opening.
Contrast / Antithesis
“Kuttramondru naan purinthaal un seyalae / Nalla gunam ondru naan adainthaal un varavae”
The lyrics contrast human flaws ('Kuttram') with good virtues ('Nalla gunam') to emphasize total surrender, attributing both human failings and virtues to divine supreme will.
Imagery / Personification
“Kaar mugilgal aadugindra ezhumalai”
The line uses visual imagery by describing dark rain clouds 'dancing' over the peaks of the Seven Hills (Ezhumalai).
Refrain (Pallavi repetition)
“Aanandha nilaiyam ondru amaithu vaithen”
The line 'Aanandha nilaiyam ondru amaithu vaithen' acts as the central thematic anchor repeated throughout the song to reinforce devotional focus.
Did you know?
Trivia
The term 'Ananda Nilayam' (Abode of Happiness) refers specifically to the gilded tower (Vimanam) built over the sanctum sanctorum of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. In the film 'Thirumal Perumai' (1968), music was composed by K. V. Mahadevan, and the film famously features actor Sivaji Ganesan portraying historical devotees of Lord Vishnu.
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