- Lyricist
- Gangai Amaran
- Singer
- S. Janaki
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Puthir
- Movie release year
- 1986
- Lyrics added on
- 15 Sept 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Onna Pol Manmathan' from the movie Puthir (1986) is a seductive, upbeat club dance track where the female protagonist flirtatiously praises her lover's charm and attractive aura, equating him to Manmathan (the Hindu god of love) and Krishna. The overarching philosophy of the song revolves around carpe diem—reminding the listener that life is fleeting ('life is four days, youth is only two') and youth must be celebrated and enjoyed to the fullest through love and intimacy. Throughout the track, the lyrics utilize rich sensual imagery—sandalwood, emeralds, and the chilly month of Margazhi—to highlight passion, desire, and playfulness. Sung brilliantly by S. Janaki with her iconic vocal modulations and supported by a lively chorus, the song captures a spirited, carefree celebration of romantic allure.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamai)
“Onna pol manmathan / Kannana polavae”
The lover is directly compared to Manmathan (Cupid) and Kannan (Lord Krishna) to emphasize his ultimate romantic charm and handsome appeal.
Ethugai (Second letter rhyming)
“Vaazhkkaiyo naalu naalunaa / Adhula vaalipam rendu naaluthaan”
The second letter 'zha/la' sound creates a rhythmic chime between 'Vaazhkkaiyo' and 'Adhula'.
Iyaipu (End Rhyme)
“Sollunga allunga sonthamaa kollunga / Muththamaa kottunga mellave kattunga”
The repeating suffix '-unga' at the end of multiple rhythmic commands creates an engaging lyrical bounce.
Monai (Initial Alliteration)
“Kaama kalaigalai karachchava kudichchava / Kaaththu thavichchirukkaen”
Repetition of the initial 'Ka' sound ('Kaama', 'kalaigalai', 'karachchava', 'Kaaththu') gives melodic flow to the line.
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by Ilaiyaraaja and penned by his brother Gangai Amaran, 'Onna Pol Manmathan' showcases S. Janaki's incredible versatility in delivering seductive and playful vocal expressions. The line 'Vaazhkkaiyo naalu naalunaa, adhula vaalipam rendu naaluthaan' became a popular colloquial punchline in Tamil pop culture, summarizing the fleeting nature of youth in a simple, catchy proverb.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Puthir
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.