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Isaimozhi
Lyrics & meaning

Ellorukum Nalla Kaalam

From Marupadiyum · 1993

Lyricist
Vaali
Singer
K. J. Yesudas
Music director
Ilayaraja
Details
Marupadiyum1993

Lyrics & meaning

Tanglish lyrics English translation
Male
{Ellorukkum… nalla kaalam unduFor everyone, a good time exists
Neram undu vaazhvilaeThere is a designated time in life
Illaarukkum… nalla maattram unduEven for those who have nothing, a positive change exists
Yettram undu ulagilae}(2)There is progress and upliftment in this world
Male
Vinaakkalum kanaakkalumQuestions and dreams
Veenaaga yenWhy let them go to waste?
Ponnaal varum kai koodidumA golden day will arrive, success will come together
PoraattamaeO life's struggle!
Naalai endrorr naalai nambungal…Have faith in a day called tomorrow...
Male
Ellorukkum… nalla kaalam unduFor everyone, a good time exists
Neram undu vaazhvilaeThere is a designated time in life
Illaarukkum… nalla maattram unduEven for those who have nothing, a positive change exists
Yettram undu ulagilaeThere is progress and upliftment in this world
Male
{ManmeethilaeUpon this earth
Entha jeevanukkum alavillaatha aasaigalFor any living soul, desires are boundless
Ondrallavae ..They are not just one or two...
Oraayiraththai thaandi nirkkum thevaigal} (2)Needs stand exceeding thousands
Male
Ninaiththathu nadappathu evan vasamIn whose control lies the fulfillment of thoughts?
Anaiththaiyum mudippathu avan vasamConcluding everything is in His control
Deivam endra ondrai nambungal …Believe in the divine entity called God...
Male
{Ellorukkum… nalla kaalam unduFor everyone, a good time exists
Neram undu vaazhvilaeThere is a designated time in life
Illaarukkum… nalla maattram unduEven for those who have nothing, a positive change exists
Yettram undu ulagilae} (2)There is progress and upliftment in this world

Beyond the translation

Song interpretation

This song from the film Marupadiyum (1993) is an inspirational anthem centered on hope, resilience, and faith. It offers solace to those undergoing hardships by assuring that life operates in cycles, where change and progress are inevitable for everyone—regardless of their current struggles or lack of resources.

Writing craft

Poetic devices

Edhugai (Second Letter Rhyme)

Ellorukkum / Illaarukkum

The matching second letter sound ('ll') in 'Ellorukkum' and 'Illaarukkum' forms a classic Tamil poetic rhythm.

Iyaibu (End Rhyme)

Ellorukkum… nalla kaalam undu / Neram undu vaazhvilae

The repetition of the word 'undu' (exists) at the end of lines creates a comforting, repetitive rhythm.

Internal Rhyme

Vinaakkalum kanaakkalum

The usage of 'Vinaakkalum' (questions) and 'kanaakkalum' (dreams) within a single line creates internal balance.

Antithesis / Contrast

Illaarukkum… nalla maattram undu / Yettram undu ulagilae

Contrasting 'Illaarukkum' (those who have nothing) with 'Yettram' (elevation/growth) highlights hope over despair.

Did you know?

Trivia

The song from Marupadiyum (1993) features music composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja, lyrics by Vaali, and vocals by S. P. Balasubrahmanyam. Directed by Balu Mahendra, the movie is a celebrated Tamil adaptation of Mahesh Bhatt's Hindi film Arth (1982).

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