- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singers
- Malaysia Vasudevan, Chorus
- Music director
- Raveendran
- Movie name
- Rasigan Oru Rasigai
- Movie release year
- 1986
- Lyrics added on
- 21 Apr 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Naadu Nalla Naadu' from 'Rasigan Oru Rasigai' (1986), written by Vaali, offers a sharp satirical commentary on society and moral decay. The protagonist laments that while the land itself is inherently good and blessed, the actions, ethics, and administration of the people living in it are deeply flawed. He highlights the plight of the poor, whose hardships go ignored by the insensitive masses and those in power. Through historical and mythological references—such as the noble Karna who suffered despite his righteousness and Mahatma Gandhi who was assassinated despite his ideals of peace—the song reflects cynical realism. It argues that absolute honesty often leaves a person starving in an unjust society, and despite the advent of great leaders and reformers, the world stubbornly refuses to change for the better.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second letter rhyming)
“Naadu nalla naadu / Aanaakka nadappu seri illae”
The second consonant sound 'da' matches across lines: 'Naadu' and 'Aanaakka nadappu'.
Monaai (Alliteration / First letter matching)
“Ezha padura paadu sonnaakkka / Edhuvum puriyallae”
Repetition of the starting letter 'E' in 'Ezha' and 'Edhuvum'.
Historical & Mythological Allusions
“Karnan kuda kadaisi varaikkum kasta pattaan daa / Gaandhi pola aala kooda oruthan konnaan daa”
References to Mahabharata's Karna and Mahatma Gandhi to illustrate how society mistreats virtuous individuals.
Refrain and Call-and-Response
“Chorus :Aamamdaa nadappu seri illa”
The lead singer delivers social commentary lines, followed immediately by chorus affirmations ('Aamaandaa'), reflecting a traditional folk philosophy storytelling style.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Rasigan Oru Rasigai' (1986) featured music composed by Raveendran, starring Sathyaraj and Ambika. Lyricist Vaali employed simple, conversational Tamil folk rhythms (Dappan Kuthu style philosophical songs) to convey heavy socio-political themes, making complex moral critiques accessible to the general audience.
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