- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- V. S. Narasimhan
- Movie name
- Kalyana Agathigal
- Movie release year
- 1985
- Lyrics added on
- 12 Aug 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This soulful song from 'Kalyana Agathigal' meditates on the transient, illusory nature of human existence. Comparing human beings to small boats navigating deceptive mirage waves, the lyricist Vairamuthu reflects on how short life truly is—while chronological time spans years, meaningful living lasts only moments. The verses draw upon vivid nature imagery, such as ephemeral rainbows, fleeting water bubbles, rolling dewdrops, and falling leaves, to emphasize mortality and impermanence. Ultimately, the song poses deep existential questions about fate, mortality, and time's incomprehensible play ('leelai'). It describes Earth as a school of illusions where no horoscope can grant immunity from destiny. The speaker calls out to fellow travelers in life to seek ultimate truth or a metaphorical shore, highlighting the universal struggle to find purpose amidst life's short-lived theater.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamaani / Uvameyam)
“Vaazhvenum kumizhikkul”
Life is metaphorically compared to a mirage ('Kaanal'), a rainbow drama ('Vaanavil Naadagam'), and a soap bubble ('Kumizhi') to emphasize its temporary and deceptive nature.
Monai (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Vithiyinai vellum pillai”
Repetition of initial consonant sounds across adjacent words, such as 'V' in 'Vithiyinai' and 'Vellum'.
Edhukai (Second Letter Rhyme)
“Bhoomiyae maaya velai / Poigalin paadasaalai”
Rhyming of the second letter 'y'/'i' in 'Bhoomiyae' and 'Poigalin', creating rhythmic harmony.
Iyaibu (End Rhyme)
“Nadaththa vanthom / Vasikka vanthom”
Matching end sounds in successive lines such as 'vanthom' and 'vanthom', or 'velai', 'paadasaalai', and 'leelai'.
Personification
“Kaalamae enna leelai”
Addressing 'Time' ('Kaalamae') directly as a sentient entity engaging in games or play ('leelai').
Did you know?
Trivia
'Kalyana Agathigal' (1985) was directed by legendary filmmaker K. Balachander, marking his 65th film. The film famously introduced actress Saranya Ponvannan in her lead debut role. The soundtrack was composed by V. S. Narasimhan, featuring evocative lyrics by Vairamuthu.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Kalyana Agathigal
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.