- Lyricist
- A. Maruthakasi
- Singer
- A. L. Ragavan
- Music director
- K. V. Mahadevan
- Movie name
- Panchali
- Movie release year
- 1959
- Lyrics added on
- 9 May 2025
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Oru murai paarthaale podhum' is a classic romantic track expressing the overwhelming fascination and joy brought on by a single glance of the beloved. The protagonist declares that seeing his lover just once leaves an unforgettable imprint on his soul that endures forever. He marvels at her expressive dark eyes, which seem to dance like lightning and inspire poetry beyond imagination, and her sweet speech that flows like nectar.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Monai (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Karuvizhi paarvaiyil minnal vandhaadum / Karpanai kettaadha arpudha kavi paadum”
The occurrence of the 'Ka' (க) sound at the start of consecutive lines ('Karuvizhi' and 'Karpanai') creates a rhythmic Monai effect.
Metaphor / Uvamai (Visual Imagery)
“Kannangalai rojaa malar enbadhaa? ... Kangalai meenendru solvadhaa?”
The lyricist compares her cheeks to delicate rose flowers/mirrors and her eyes to fish (a classic Tamil literary motif, 'Kayalvizhi'), emphasizing traditional ideals of beauty.
Metaphor (Nature Imagery)
“Maandhalirai kaanum podhu / Un vanna maeni adhil kaanudhae”
Compares the heroine's glowing complexion to the reddish-golden tint of fresh, tender mango leaves (Maandhalir).
Did you know?
Trivia
Released in the 1959 Tamil film *Panchali*, this song was composed by the legendary 'Mama' K. V. Mahadevan and penned by veteran lyricist A. Maruthakasi. Sung by A. L. Ragavan, who was well known for his expressive vocal versatility, the song remains a fondly remembered romantic melody from the golden era of Tamil cinema.
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