- Lyricist
- A. Maruthakasi
- Singer
- P. Bhanumathi
- Music director
- G. Ramanathan
- Movie name
- Manimekalai
- Movie release year
- 1959
- Lyrics added on
- 19 Feb 2026
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This iconic composition celebrates genuine love as the ultimate source of eternal happiness in human existence. It contrasts temporary material pleasures—such as gold, wealth, and physical embellishments, which merely offer visually enticing but false satisfaction—with true love, which satisfies all five senses and provides divine, everlasting joy (mei inbam).
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Monaikal (Alliteration)
“Ponn porul pooshanam tharum inbam”
Repetition of the initial 'Po' sound in 'Ponn porul pooshanam' creates melodic rhythm and auditory harmony.
Antithesis (Contrast)
“Kangalai kavarum poi inbam / Amara vaazhvu tharum mei inbam”
Direct philosophical juxtaposition between 'poi inbam' (false joy from material goods) and 'mei inbam' (true joy from eternal love).
Anaphora / Epizeuxis
“Inbam inbam inbam”
Emphatic repetition of the word 'Inbam' (joy) highlights the song's primary motif and emotional core.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Manimekalai' (1959) was adapted from the famous ancient Tamil Buddhist epic written by Chithalai Chathanar. Singer P. Bhanumathi, who was also a multitalented director, author, and studio owner, delivered this classical song composed by veteran maestro G. Ramanathan with intricate vocal swaras.
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