- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singers
- P. Susheela, S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
- Music director
- T. R. Pappa
- Movie name
- Yaar Jambulingam
- Movie release year
- 1972
- Lyrics added on
- 25 Nov 2024
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This classic romantic duet from the film 'Yaar Jambulingam' (1972) expresses the blissful romance between two lovers. The lyrics draw rich comparisons between elements of nature—such as fruit clinging to vines, dew resting on petals, and clouds touching mountain peaks—and the physical intimacy of a couple's first kiss. The lovers romanticize their bond through poetic metaphors, describing art painted by eyes and epics written through smiles, while yearning for togetherness and warmth in the night.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Iyaibu (End Rhyme)
“Kani muththam pathinthathu kodi melae”
The repetitive ending 'melae' across the opening lines creates a rhythmic end-rhyme scheme characteristic of Tamil lyricism.
Uvamai (Metaphor/Simile)
“Poovizhiyaal oru oviyam”
Comparing eyes to flowers ('Poovizhi') and waist to a thin thread ('Noolidai') are traditional Tamil poetic imagery used to praise feminine grace.
Anaphora / Repetition
“Pani muththam pathinthathu malar melae”
The structure '...muththam pathinthathu...' repeated across successive lines establishes a poetic cadence.
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by veteran music director T. R. Pappa and written by Vaali, 'Kani Muththam' is a rare track from the 1972 film 'Yaar Jambulingam' featuring SPB and P. Susheela. T. R. Pappa was renowned for integrating light classical and folk elements seamlessly into mid-20th century Tamil cinema music.
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