- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singer
- Ilayaraja
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Alaigal Oivathillai
- Movie release year
- 1981
- Lyrics added on
- 11 Jan 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This poignant, emotionally charged track expresses the deep anguish of a lover seeking a glimpse ('Dharisanam') and mercy ('Karisanam') from his beloved, whom he elevates to the stature of a deity ('Devi'). He speaks of his pure, devotional love, describing how he cultivated a sacred flower within his heart for her worship while burning with grief in his eyes. The lyrics paint a picture of continuous suffering and tears as he implores her to grant him her presence and empathy before his heart completely dissolves in sorrow.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Rhyme / Monnai-Ethukai
“En mel karisanam kidayatha”
The words 'Dharisanam' (divine vision) and 'Karisanam' (compassion/concern) form an elegant internal and end-rhyme scheme across the refrain.
Metaphor
“Poi illai kannukkul thee valarthen”
'Kannukkul thee' (fire in the eyes) metaphorically represents intense longing, burning grief, and sleepless distress.
Metaphor
“Un poojaikku nenjukkul poo valarthen”
'Nenjukkul poo' (flower in the heart) symbolizes pure, delicate love and spiritual devotion nurtured for the beloved.
Anaphora / Repetition (Adukku Thodar)
“Ivan manam dhinam dhinam karaigira varayilum”
The repetition of 'dhinam dhinam' (day after day) emphasizes the relentless, unceasing nature of his emotional suffering.
Did you know?
Trivia
Alaigal Oivathillai (1981) was a major blockbuster directed by P. Bharathiraja, introducing new lead actors Karthik and Radha. Composed and sung by Ilaiyaraaja himself, this tragic track highlights his signature soulful, unpolished vocal delivery that vividly conveys raw anguish. The soundtrack proved to be a landmark album in Tamil cinema history, winning the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Music Director.
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