- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singer
- T. M. Soundararajan
- Music director
- M. S. Vishwanathan
- Movie name
- Mannavan Vanthaanadi
- Movie release year
- 1975
- Lyrics added on
- 6 Dec 2019
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This energetic, socio-political song expresses the protagonist's fiery resolve to reform society and eliminate corruption. The protagonist vows to capture 'the fort' (symbolic of political power and governance) through principled leadership, following the footsteps of great past leaders. He aims to unmask hypocritical exploiters, uplift the poor and underprivileged, eradicate social inequalities, and ensure justice and prosperity for the working class. The lyrics serve as a call to action, encouraging people to sharpen their intellect and fight against social ills. Vaali's powerful imagery highlights the contrast between deceptive leaders and the suffering common people, framing political power not as a goal of ambition, but as a tool for public service and social equality.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Koottam pottu kodi pudichu / Aattam pottu adhira vechu”
The second consonant sounds 'tt' match across lines (Koottam / Aattam), creating a rhythmic cadence.
Metaphor & Imagery
“Aani achaani illaadha thaerai Ellorkkum kaatta poren”
Comparing a leader without principles or substance to a chariot lacking an axle pin (aani achaani), which cannot run properly.
Simile (Upamaika)
“Kathiya pola buthiya theettu”
Comparing the sharpening of human intellect (buthi) to the sharpening of a knife (kathi).
Antithesis / Contrast
“Ullae onnaaga veliyae onnaaga”
Contrasting inner deceit with outer hypocrisy (Ullae onnaaga veliyae onnaaga) and social hierarchy (Maedu pallangal).
Did you know?
Trivia
This song belongs to the classic era of Tamil socio-political film tracks popularized during the 1970s. The phrase 'kottai' (fort) specifically references St. George Fort in Chennai, which houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, a frequent metaphor in Tamil cinema for obtaining political power to serve the public.
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