- Lyricist
- Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathiyaar
- Singers
- K. J. Yesudas, Swarnalatha
- Music director
- M. S. Vishwanathan
- Movie name
- Neethikku Thandanai
- Movie release year
- 1987
- Lyrics added on
- 9 Feb 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is an adaptation of Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathiyar's immortal poem, which portrays a parent's profound affection and adoration for their young child, addressed lovingly as Kannamma. The lyricist metaphorically describes the child as a tiny parrot, a treasure trove, delicious sweet nectar, and a living golden painting that brings immense light into life, banishing all past misery. The poem captures the pure joy of simple moments—kissing the child's head, hearing others praise her, and hugging her—which bring boundless pride, thrilling bliss, and spiritual elevation to the parent's soul.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvam)
“Chinnajchiru kiliyae kannammaa”
The child is metaphorically referred to as 'Chinnajchiru kili' (little parrot), 'Selva kalanjiyam' (treasure trove), and 'Pesum porchiththiram' (speaking golden picture) to convey her priceless value.
Anaphora (Repetition)
“Uchchithanai mugarnthaal Karuvam ongi valaruthadi”
Repetition of key lines enhances melodic flow and emphasizes intense emotional tenderness.
Moni / Alliteration
“Kannaththil muththamittaal ullanthaan”
Consonance of sound 'Ch' in 'Chinnajchiru' and 'K' in 'Kannaththil muththamittaal' creates a rhythmic cadence in Tamil poetry.
Did you know?
Trivia
Originally authored by Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathiyar in the early 20th century, 'Chinnanjiru Kiliye' is one of the most famous child-devotional poems in Tamil literature. In the 1987 film 'Neethikku Thandanai', music legend M. S. Viswanathan scored the soundtrack, with iconic renditions sung by K. J. Yesudas and S. Janaki.
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