- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singers
- A. R. Rahman, Suresh Peters, Swarnalatha
- Music director
- A. R. Rahman
- Movie name
- Bombay
- Movie release year
- 1995
- Lyrics added on
- 20 Jun 2017
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Hamma Hamma is a high-energy, sensual romantic song from Mani Ratnam's classic film Bombay (1995). The lyrics by Vairamuthu portray the thrilling enchantment of newfound love and physical intimacy against the atmospheric backdrop of the Arabian seaside. Using rich metaphors from nature like rain, breezes, and lotus flowers, the song captures both the raw excitement and the sweet tenderness shared between lovers. The verse highlights how true love persists even after physical intimacy subsides, emphasizing that love remains forever blooming like an eternal flame even after darkness falls.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second Letter Rhyme)
“Sollikkoduththapinnum / Allikkoduththapinnum”
The second consonant 'lli' rhymes in consecutive lines, creating a rhythmic lyrical flow.
Iyaibu (End Rhyme)
“Siththam kilugilukka / Raththam thudithudikka”
Lines end with similar sounding rhyming words ('kilugilukka' and 'thudithudikka') emphasizing passion.
Metaphor (Uruvagham)
“Hey paliththaamaraiyae / Un paadham kandenae”
Comparing the beloved to a glowing, flawless lotus ('paliththaamarai').
Personification
“Andha kanni thendral aadaighalukku”
Attributing human traits like 'virginity' to the sea breeze ('kanni thendral').
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by A. R. Rahman for Mani Ratnam's 1995 film 'Bombay', this iconic track features vocals by A. R. Rahman, Remo Fernandes, and Swarnalatha. Actress Sonali Bendre made a memorable special appearance in the dance sequence, making it one of the biggest chartbusters of the 1990s.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Bombay
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.