- Lyricist
- Gangai Amaran
- Singers
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, Chorus
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Annanukku Jai
- Movie release year
- 1989
- Lyrics added on
- 18 Jan 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This philosophical song expresses a street-smart and disillusioned perspective on social status, politics, and fake praise. The protagonist rejects the superficial cheers of the crowd, highlighting how governments change without improving the plight of the poor who struggle for basic sustenance. He strongly advises his younger brother to be self-reliant, stating that hard work and self-belief are the only genuine means to rise in life. Furthermore, he critiques society's superficiality, noting how people only celebrate a person after they succeed, while leaving them abandoned during tough times. The song advocates for independence, self-respect, and awareness over public adulation.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second Letter Rhyming)
“Enakkedhukku jae jae / Ennakkadhu pudikkavillae chee chee”
The second consonant 'na' matches in 'Enakkedhukku' and 'Ennakkadhu', creating a natural rhythmic cadence in Tamil poetry.
Monaai (First Letter Alliteration)
“Oruthanaiyum nambaadhae daa yen thambi / Onna mattum nambi irudaa”
Repetition of the initial vowel sound 'O' in 'Oruthanaiyum' and 'Onna'.
Anaphora / Epanalepsis (Repetition for Emphasis)
“Enakkedhukku jae jae / Ennakkadhu pudikkavillae chee chee”
The colloquial repetitive exclamations 'jae jae' and 'chee chee' are used continuously to emphasize rejection of empty praise.
Rhetorical Question
“Enakkedhukku jae jae”
The speaker asks 'Enakkedhukku jae jae' (Why do I need victory cheers?) to express disdain towards superficial flattery.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Annanukku Jai' (1989) stars Arjun Sarja and Seetha, directed by Gangai Amaran who also penned the lyrics for this self-reflective philosophical track.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Annanukku Jai
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.