- Lyricist
- Na. Muthu Kumar
- Singer
- Harish Raghavendra
- Music director
- Yuvan Shankar Raja
- Movie name
- Kaadhal Kondein
- Movie release year
- 2003
- Lyrics added on
- 27 Feb 2017
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Devathaiyai Kanden from Kaadhal Kondein is a poignant exploration of obsessive love, heartbreak, and unfulfilled longing. The protagonist views his beloved as a divine angel who entered his dark world and gave him a sense of identity. However, her presence proves transient, leaving him with only painful memories—likened to butterfly dust left on fingertips or flowers blooming on a grave that will never adorn hair. Despite the suffering and emotional disorientation caused by this unrequited bond, the protagonist remains completely incapable of harboring anger toward her, accepting that his rise and ultimate downfall are inextricably linked to her existence.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvagamm)
“Oru vannathu poochi enthan vazhi thedi vanthathu / Athan vannangal matum indru viralodu ullathu”
The beloved's brief presence is portrayed as a butterfly whose temporary touch leaves behind indelible color on the lover's fingers.
Metaphor (Uruvagamm)
“Kallarai melae pookum pookal koondhalai poi thaan seradhae”
Unrequited or futile love is compared to flowers blooming atop a grave, which can never fulfill their intended purpose of decorating a woman's hair.
Analogy / Simile (Uvamai)
“Kaatrinil kizhiyum ilaikalukellam kaatridam kobam kidaiyathu”
The lover compares himself to leaves torn by the wind, bearing no resentment toward the force that destroys them.
Alliteration (Monaai / Edhugai)
“Theekullae viral vaithen / Thani theevil kadai vaithen”
Rhythmic repetition of initial consonant sounds ('Th') creates poetic cadence.
Did you know?
Trivia
Kaadhal Kondein (2003), directed by Selvaraghavan and starring Dhanush, features a celebrated musical score by Yuvan Shankar Raja with lyrics by Na. Muthukumar. 'Devathaiyai Kanden' became an anthem for heartbreak in Tamil cinema, showcasing Yuvan's signature melancholic melodies and Na. Muthukumar's evocative imagery.
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