- Lyricist
- M. K. Aathmanathan
- Music director
- R. Sudharsanam
- Movie name
- Thilakam
- Movie release year
- 1960
- Lyrics added on
- 24 Apr 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This romantic track from 'Thilakam' (1960) expresses the deep, uncontainable longing between two lovers. The protagonist struggles with feelings that are too overwhelming to keep hidden inside the heart, yet difficult to articulate openly. She reminisces about their childhood affection and laments the physical or social barriers preventing them from being together, using vivid folk metaphors of nature and rural life.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Simile (Uvamai)
“Paavai ennai bambaram pol aatti veikkalaaama”
The speaker compares her restless state of being toyed with or distressed by love to a spinning top ('bambaram').
Metaphor (Uruvagam)
“Maaththariyaa thangamae manasai thottu paaru”
Addressing the beloved as 'Maaththariyaa thangam' (pure, high-quality gold) elevates his character and value through direct metaphor.
Initial Rhyme (Monai)
“Kaniyirukkudhu kombilae / Kiliyirukkudhu koondilae”
Repetition of initial consonant sounds ('Ka') across 'Kaniyirukkudhu' and 'Kiliyirukkudhu' creates melodic rhythm in Tamil poetry.
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by R. Sudharsanam with lyrics by M. K. Aathmanathan, 'Thilakam' features a duet by Seerkazhi Govindarajan and the renowned Carnatic vocalist M. L. Vasanthakumari, combining classical vocal perfection with accessible folk-inspired melodies.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Thilakam
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.