- Lyricist
- Pa. Vijay
- Singers
- Ranjith, Naveen Madhav
- Music director
- Mani Sharma
- Movie name
- Padikathavan (2009 Film)
- Movie release year
- 2009
- Lyrics added on
- 10 Oct 2017
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Vetri Vela' (often referred to as 'Haro Haro') from the movie Padikathavan (2009) is a high-energy motivational street-dance anthem celebrating street-smart wisdom over formal academic degrees. The protagonist, who is uneducated in the formal sense ('Padikathavan'), asserts that true character, kindness, integrity, and hard work matter far more than academic qualifications. He emphasizes that he does not trip others up or act deceitfully despite not holding degrees. To prove his point, the song cites historic and contemporary icons who achieved legendary success without higher education or formal schooling—such as M. G. Ramachandran, M. Karunanidhi, Sachin Tendulkar, Dhirubhai Ambani, the Wright Brothers, and George Stephenson. Through vibrant rhythms, infectious energy, and local street slang, the song encourages listeners to stay confident, support one another, work hard, and celebrate life to the fullest regardless of their educational background.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Ethugai (Second-letter Rhyming)
“En peru ooril padikathavan / Aanalum poiya nadikaathavan”
The second letter 'd' (டி/தி sound) rhymes across consecutive lines ('padikathavan' and 'nadikaathavan').
Monai (First-letter Alliteration)
“Aaraezhu degree mudikathavan / Yaar kaala vaara thudikathavan”
Repetition of initial rhythm patterns across the two paired lines.
Iyaipu (End Rhyming)
“En peru ooril padikathavan / Aanalum poiya nadikaathavan / Aaraezhu degree mudikathavan / Yaar kaala vaara thudikathavan”
All four lines end with the suffix '-athavan', creating a pleasing end-rhyme cadence.
Simile / Metaphor
“Aanaalum paeru vaanam pola”
Uses 'vaanam pola' (like the sky) to compare Ambani's widespread fame and height of success to the vast expanse of the sky.
Did you know?
Trivia
The song 'Vetri Vela' is the energetic opening track of the 2009 Tamil action-comedy film *Padikathavan*, starring Dhanush and Tamannaah. The music was composed by Mani Sharma, with vocals provided by Tippu and lyrics penned by Pa. Vijay. The song's title pays homage to Rajinikanth's 1985 classic film *Padikkadavan*, echoing the theme of a hero who triumphs through street smarts, loyalty, and heart rather than formal education.
Keep listening
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