- Lyricist
- Gangai Amaran
- Singer
- Kousalya
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Irandil Ondru
- Movie release year
- 1988
- Lyrics added on
- 25 Feb 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This folk-style song praises a highly noble and charitable individual by comparing their righteous character to Dharma (Yudhishthira) and their legendary generosity to Karna from the Mahabharata. The singer validates the traditional proverb that the accumulated merit of good deeds acts as a shield against misfortune, stating that her own eyes have witnessed this truth. Expressing deep veneration, the singer compares the benefactor to a god and prays for their long, prosperous, and happy life.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Upamai (Simile)
“Dheivam pola devaraiyaa”
Directly compares the noble subject to a deity ('Dheivam pola') to accentuate his divine goodness.
Etukai (Second Letter Rhyme)
“Dharmarukku pin pirantha tharuma magarasa”
The second letter harmony with 'r' in 'Dharmarukku' and 'Karnarukku' creates a pleasant poetic rhythm.
Allusion (Ilakkiya Kurippu)
“Dharmarukku pin pirantha tharuma magarasa / Karnarukku pin pirantha karna magarasa”
References classical epic personages Dharma (symbol of justice) and Karna (symbol of ultimate charity) from the Mahabharata.
Did you know?
Trivia
The song from 'Irandil Ondru' (1988) was composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja with lyrics written by his brother Gangai Amaran. The chorus features traditional Tamil rural trilling vocalizations ('kulavai' or 'lulululu'), which are traditionally performed by women during auspicious celebrations, temple festivals, and joy-filled gatherings in village culture.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Irandil Ondru
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.