- Lyricist
- Pazhani Bharathi
- Singer
- Ilayaraja
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Ramanaa
- Movie release year
- 2002
- Lyrics added on
- 11 Sept 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is a scathing socio-political critique that highlights the deep divide between political rhetoric and ground realities in society. Despite the abundance of political parties, ideologies, and high-sounding morals, the common poor continue to suffer through poverty, unemployment, and systemic neglect. The lyrics contrast the lofty ideals of visionary poets like Subramania Bharathi—who deemed schools as temples—against modern commercialized education and widespread corruption. The emotional arc progresses from acute observation of societal ironies to intense outrage against corrupt leaders who enrich themselves at the expense of the working class. It expresses the anguish of marginalized citizens who feel abandoned, raising poignant questions about when true justice and equality will finally prevail for everyone.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Iyaipu (End Rhyme)
“Paadu pattum varumai mattum ozhiyala / Makkal munnaerum vazhi innum theriyala”
The line endings 'ozhiyala' and 'theriyala' rhyme, creating a rhythmic and melancholic emphasis on unresolved societal problems.
Ethugai (Second Letter Rhyme)
“Vayir eriyuthae / Uyir uruguthae”
The second consonant sound 'yir' matches in 'Vayir' and 'Uyir', enhancing the emotional intensity.
Rhetorical Question
“Engalai ingu aaluvathu indianaa anniyanaa”
The lyricist asks 'Are those ruling us Indians or foreigners?', using a strong rhetorical question to challenge the empathy and integrity of modern rulers.
Allusion
“Pallikkoodam koyil endru sonnaan bharathi”
Refers directly to Mahakavi Subramania Bharathi's famous declaration that schools are places of worship ('Palli thalam anaiththum koyil seyvom').
Hyperbole / Metaphor
“Vayir eriyuthae uyir uruguthae”
Describing intense hunger and grief as the 'stomach burning' and 'soul melting' forcefully conveys severe physical and emotional distress.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Oorukkoru Katchiyum' is a prominent socio-conscious track from the 2002 blockbuster Tamil movie 'Ramanaa', directed by A. R. Murugadoss and starring Vijayakanth. The film's soundtrack was composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja, with lyrics for this song penned by Pazhani Bharathi. Sung powerfully by Sirkazhi G. Sivachidambaram, the song serves as a central thematic piece reflecting the protagonist's crusade against institutional corruption.
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