- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singers
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, Mano
- Music director
- Bala Bharathi
- Movie name
- Thalaivasal
- Movie release year
- 1992
- Lyrics added on
- 12 Mar 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
'Naalaikku Nam Kaalam Vellum' from the movie Thalaivasal (1992) is an energetic youth anthem highlighting the spirit, struggles, and aspirations of college students. Written by Vairamuthu and composed by Bala Bharathi, the song balances youthful rebellion against authority with practical wisdom regarding duty and boundaries. It urges students to stay united, persevere through challenges, and dream big while recognizing the realities of life.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Emonai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Kalloori ennum sorgathil vandhom... / Athigaaram than engal thollai...”
The second consonant 'll' is repeated across 'Kalloori' and 'Athigaaram' (lh/ll sounds) creating a rhythmic Tamil poetic symmetry.
Metaphor (Uruvagim)
“Neenthugindra kendaigalae… Neerodu thuthithaada paavam illai”
Comparing students to carp fish (kendaigal) and college discipline to water, emphasizing that freedom outside parameters can lead to destruction.
Anaphora / Repetition
“Yehae naalaikku nam kaalam vellum”
The optimistic refrain 'Naalaikku nam kaalam vellum' is repeated to reinforce hope and determination.
Did you know?
Trivia
Thalaivasal marked a significant turning point in Tamil cinema as a college-based drama, introducing actor 'Thalaivasal' Vijay (who got his moniker from this film). The soundtrack composed by Bala Bharathi was a massive hit among college youth in the early 1990s.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Thalaivasal
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.