- Lyricist
- Kannadasan
- Singers
- P. Susheela, K. Jamunarani
- Music director
- K. V. Mahadevan
- Movie name
- Kadavulai Kanden
- Movie release year
- 1963
- Lyrics added on
- 14 Apr 2024
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This duet song from Kadavulai Kanden (1963) beautifully intertwines two distinct relationships—that of a sister towards her brother, and that of a wife towards her husband. The sister inquires about her brother's well-being, remembering how he supported her and her mother during times of distress, while also expressing sadness over his sudden absence right after her wedding. Simultaneously, the bride sings to her husband, expressing romantic anticipation and devotion as she prepares for their marital union. Kannadasan's lyrical brilliance contrasts 'pasam' (fraternal affection) with 'kaadhal' (romantic love). The sister highlights how she has accompanied her brother right from childhood (the cradle), whereas the bride expresses her commitment as a maiden accompanying her spouse into married life.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Ethukai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Thottil mudhalaai thodarndhu vandhaval / Kattil variyum varugira kanni”
Matching second consonants across lines to establish Tamil poetic rhythm (Anna / Kanna, Thottil / Kattil).
Contrast / Parallelism
“Thottil mudhalaai thodarndhu vandhaval ... Kattil variyum varugira kanni”
Direct comparison between the lifelong bond of a sister from infancy ('Thottil') and the lifelong romantic commitment of a wife ('Kattil').
Anaphora (Repetition for Emphasis)
“Naan thaanae naan thaanae”
Repetition of 'Naan thaanae' reinforces emotional intimacy, identity, and commitment.
Metaphor / Visual Imagery
“Mukkaniyodu sakkarai pandhal / Pottirukkindren vaa kanna”
'Mukkaniyodu sakkarai pandhal' (a canopy of sugar adorned with the three sacred fruits) symbolizes the sweetness and auspiciousness of romantic marital bliss.
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by K. V. Mahadevan for the 1963 Tamil film Kadavulai Kanden, this track features the dual vocals of P. Susheela and K. Jamunarani. It is a rare female duet structured to simultaneously represent two contrasting female bonds—fraternal devotion and conjugal passion—crafted through Kannadasan's evocative poetry.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Kadavulai Kanden
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.