- Lyricist
- Kuyilan
- Singer
- Jikki
- Music director
- T. Chalapathi Rao
- Movie name
- Aandi Petra Selvan
- Movie release year
- 1957
- Lyrics added on
- 10 Feb 2025
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This philosophical song from 'Aandi Petra Selvan' (1957) serves as a moral awakening, urging human beings to discard worldly pride and live with truthfulness. It emphasizes that ultimate human destiny is an equalizer—whether one resides in a grand palace or a simple thatched hut, mortality and truth remain the same for everyone. Furthermore, the lyrics contrast the restless anxiety brought on by money with the deep, undisturbed peace enjoyed by a contented poor person. True peace comes from a humble heart rather than material wealth or silken comforts.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvagaim)
“Karvam endra bodhai vidadaa”
Arrogance or pride is metaphorically equated to an intoxicating drug or liquor ('bodhai').
Metaphor (Uruvagaim)
“Paname sinthanai puyalaai veesida”
The obsessive pursuit of wealth is portrayed as a storm ('puyal') sweeping through human thought.
Rhetorical Question
“Piratha maarkkamathu ondrae illaiyaa”
The lyricist poses rhetorical questions to challenge the listener to consider the reality of human mortality and true peace.
Contrast / Antithesis (Muran)
“Maaligai meththai panjanai medhilo / Olai kudilo edhilo vaazhinum”
The lyricist contrasts the luxury of a mansion ('Maaligai meththai') with the simplicity of a hut ('Olai kudil') to highlight equality in destiny.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Aandi Petra Selvan' (1957), directed by P. Pullaiah and featuring music by T. Chalapathi Rao, is remembered for its strong philosophical moral themes. Lyricist Kuyilan penned these introspective lines, which were soulfully rendered by veteran singer Jikki. The song reflects the 1950s Tamil cinema tradition of embedding social and spiritual awakening tracks into mainstream narratives.
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