- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singer
- Rajkumar Bharathi
- Music director
- M. S. Vishwanathan
- Movie name
- Ilangeswaran
- Movie release year
- 1987
- Lyrics added on
- 2 Dec 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song uses the classic metaphor of 'Samsara Kadal' (the ocean of worldly existence) to convey deep spiritual philosophy through the rhythm of a traditional Tamil boatmen's song (Amba Paattu). To safely navigate the turbulent waters of worldly desires and past karma, the seeker must bow to divine devotees, use contemplation as the sail, dispassion (vairagya) as the oar, and direct the mind carefully like a ship's rudder. Lyricist Vaali masterfully blends spiritual wisdom with folk rhythm, creating an allegorical journey toward liberation.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Extended Metaphor (Allegory)
“Bandham migu samsara kadal kadakka”
The entirety of human spiritual life is metaphorically cast as a boat journey across a treacherous ocean.
Uruvam (Metaphor)
“Sakthi tharum vairaagiya kol pidithu”
'Samsara kadal' compares worldly life to an ocean, and 'vairaagiya kol' compares detachment to a boatman's pole or oar.
Refrain / Chorus Insertion
“Chorus :Ailasa ho hoi ailasa”
The folk refrain 'Ailasa ho hoi ailasa' serves as a rhythmic anchor, mimicking the physical effort of rowing a boat.
Did you know?
Trivia
The term 'Ailasa' is a famous traditional chant used by Tamil fishermen and boatmen (in 'Amba Paattu' folk tradition) to synchronize their physical rowing motions. Vaali cleverly repurposed this nautical folk rhythm to write a philosophical song about crossing the ocean of rebirth.
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