- Lyricist
- Udumalai Narayanakavi
- Singers
- P. Susheela, Ghantasala
- Music director
- Master Venu
- Movie name
- Manjal Mahimai
- Movie release year
- 1959
- Lyrics added on
- 16 Apr 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This poignant duet portrays the emotional turmoil and distress of two lovers caught between societal/family obligations and their deep affection for each other. The female protagonist laments her situation, questioning if she must quietly accept the painful decisions imposed by elders, wondering if her genuine love will wither before it gets a chance to bloom. She feels as vulnerable and displaced as a precious object whose worth is overlooked. The male protagonist echoes her sorrow, expressing helplessness in declaring his rightful place as her partner with dignity. Deprived of the means to stand up for their bond, both feel helpless and adrift, wondering if their profound love is destined to end in unfulfilled sorrow.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Simile (Upamai)
“Vilaiyaana paandam polae”
Compares the protagonist's lost emotional stability and altered life condition to a precious vessel or artifact being displaced ('Vilaiyaana paandam polae').
Metaphor (Uruvagaimai)
“Valam perum kaadhal malaradhu pomoo”
Love is metaphorically visualized as a flourishing flower ('Malaradhu pomoo') that risks dying before it fully blossoms.
Traditional Epithet (Uvamai Aagupeyar)
“Maanae unnaasai”
Using 'Maanae' (deer-like maiden) as an affectionate form of address to describe gentleness and beauty.
Rhetorical Question
“Maradha sogam thaano”
Asking 'Maradha sogam thaano' and 'Naan kollavo' heightens the angst and helplessness felt by the lovers.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Manjal Mahimai' (1959) features music by Master Venu, adapting melodies from its original Telugu counterpart 'Antha Manavallethe'. Udumalai Narayanakavi's deeply philosophical and emotionally grounded lyricism perfectly captured the pathos, brought to life through the legendary vocal pairing of P. Susheela and Ghantasala.
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