- Lyricist
- R. V. Udhaya Kumar
- Singer
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Ponnumani
- Movie release year
- 1993
- Lyrics added on
- 20 Mar 2018
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
'Anba Sumanthu Sumanthu' from the film Ponnumani (1993) is a deeply emotional song expressing the grief, longing, and helpless plight of a lover separated from her partner. She reflects on how he brought immense happiness into her life and questions how he could now leave her in such emotional torment. Through vivid imagery—such as a small bird stranded after its protective banyan tree falls, or the enduring scent of sandalwood paste—the lyrics highlight the everlasting nature of their bond amidst heartbreaking circumstances.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Adukkuthodar (Anaphora / Repetition)
“Anba sumanthu sumanthu”
The word 'Sumanthu' is repeated back-to-back ('Sumanthu sumanthu') to emphasize the continuous weight of love being carried.
Metaphor (Uvamai / Tharkurippu)
“Andharathil aada vittu / Aala maram saainthathae”
The protective lover is compared to a 'banyan tree' ('Aala maram') that collapsed, leaving the vulnerable bird ('kuruvi') helpless in mid-air.
Metaphor (Roobagam)
“Nesamennum kottaiyilae”
'Nesamennum kottaiyilae' translates to 'In the fortress called affection', metaphorically representing their relationship as a protective castle.
Oxymoron / Paradox
“Veesaamal veesum ingae”
'Veesaamal veesum' ('Blowing without blowing') expresses an invisible yet intensely felt emotional storm.
Keep listening
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