- Lyricist
- A. Maruthakasi
- Singer
- M. L. Vasanthakumari
- Music director
- K. V. Mahadevan
- Movie name
- Kongu Nattu Thangam
- Movie release year
- 1961
- Lyrics added on
- 3 Apr 2025
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This philosophical song from 'Kongu Nattu Thangam' reflects on the true purpose and value of human life. It posits that worldly possessions, material riches, and societal honors are utterly futile if a person lacks a pure, guileless heart. The lyricist criticizes people who prefer superficial, artificial allure over genuine virtue, comparing them to those who reject fragrant real flowers in favor of bright paper flowers, or those whose fickle minds wander endlessly like bees hopping from flower to flower.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Paradox
“Irundhum illadhavarae”
The phrase 'Irundhum illadhavarae' (Those who exist yet do not exist) uses paradox to contrast physical life with a meaningful spiritual existence.
Metaphor
“Kannai parikkum kaagitha poo vanghuvoor”
Comparing superficial, fake virtues or attachments to bright 'paper flowers' (kaagitha poo) versus real 'jasmine flowers' (jaadhi malli).
Simile / Insect Imagery
“Malar vittu malar thaavi madhuvunnum vandaaghi”
Comparing a fickle, unstable human mind to a bee flitting restlessly from blossom to blossom.
Moona (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Selvam irundhenna / Sirappugal irundhenna”
Repetition of initial consonants 'S' in 'Selvam' and 'Sirappugal'.
Did you know?
Trivia
This track features a rendered classical vocal performance by legendary Carnatic vocalist M. L. Vasanthakumari, set to music by 'Thirai Isai Thilagam' K. V. Mahadevan with lyrics penned by A. Maruthakasi.
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