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Isaimozhi
Lyrics & meaning

Kattil Bandham Kadhal Bandham

From Bandham · 1985

Lyricist
Vaali
Singer
K. J. Yesudas
Music director
Sankar Ganesh
Details
Bandham1985

Lyrics & meaning

Tanglish lyrics English translation
Male
Kattil bandham kaadhal bandhamMarital bond and love's bond last
Pottum poovum soodum varaiOnly as long as one wears the vermillion and flowers.
Male
Kattil bandham kaadhal bandhamMarital bond and love's bond last
Pottum poovum soodum varaiOnly as long as one wears the vermillion and flowers.
Adhu pona pinaalum boomiyil vaazhvaalEven after that passes, she will live on this earth
Pillai bandham ullavaraiAs long as the bond with her child exists.
Pillai bandham ullavaraiAs long as the bond with her child exists.
Male
Bandham paasa bandhamA bond is a bond of affection.
Bandham paasa bandhamA bond is a bond of affection.
Male
Sondham veror idam ponaalumEven if a relative moves to another place,
Bandham enbathu pogathuThe bond between them never leaves.
Male
Sondham veror idam ponaalumEven if a relative moves to another place,
Bandham enbathu pogathuThe bond between them never leaves.
Adhu vanjam vaithu vaazhnthaal koodaEven if they live harboring a grudge,
Nenjil irunthu neengaathuIt will never depart from the heart.
Nenjil irunthu neengaathuIt will never depart from the heart.
Male
Bandham paasa bandhamA bond is a bond of affection.
Bandham paasa bandhamA bond is a bond of affection.

Beyond the translation

Song interpretation

This song reflects on the enduring nature of human relationships and maternal love. It contrasts conjugal life—traditionally symbolized by wearing flowers and a bindi—with the immortal strength of a mother's connection to her child, which keeps her anchored to life even after losing her spouse. Furthermore, the lyrics emphasize that true affection and emotional ties transcend physical distance and personal grievances, remaining deeply rooted in the heart regardless of circumstance.

Writing craft

Poetic devices

Symbolism and Metaphor

Pottum poovum soodum varai

'Pottum poovum' (bindi and flowers) is used as a cultural symbol representing active married life and traditional marital bond.

Refrain / Repetition

Bandham paasa bandham

The phrase 'Bandham paasa bandham' is repeated regularly to reinforce the central thematic focus on emotional attachment.

Emonai / Rhyme Scheme

Sondham veror idam ponaalum / Bandham enbathu pogathu

Use of 'Sondham' and 'Bandham' creates a harmonious Tamil rhythmic flow (Iyaibu/Rhyme) across neighboring lines.

Did you know?

Trivia

Bandham (1985) is a family drama film starring Sivaji Ganesan and Nadhiya. The film's musical score was composed by legendary music director M. S. Viswanathan, featuring lyrics crafted by poet Vaali.

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