- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singers
- Malaysia Vasudevan, S. Janaki
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Bhadrakali
- Movie release year
- 1976
- Lyrics added on
- 8 Feb 2019
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is a playful, romantic duet featuring teasing exchanges between two lovers. The male protagonist tries to woo the woman by offering simple gifts like a one-rupee coin and a gold locket (pathaatti) in exchange for her affection and presence. However, the female protagonist banteringly rejects these modest offers, claiming her beauty and self-worth—fragrant like civet perfume (javvaadhu)—demand much more than mere tokens.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Ethugai (Second Letter Rhyme)
“Oththa roobhaa / Pathaattiyum”
The second consonant sound 'th' (த்) matches across the consecutive lines, creating rhythmic harmony in Tamil folk rhythm.
Iyaipu (End Rhyme)
“Ammaadi enakkadhu kattaadhu / Ada en maeni manakkura javvaadhu”
Both lines end with the matching sound '-aadhu', delivering a lyrical cadence.
Uwamai (Simile)
“Odai poovaattam oosai ponnaattam”
The suffix '-aattam' means 'like' or 'similar to', comparing her beauty and smile to stream flowers and the pleasant sound of golden ornaments.
Metaphor
“Kaadhal noi romba pollaadhadhu”
Love is metaphorically referred to as an affliction or disease ('noi') that requires a specific cure.
Did you know?
Trivia
Although the movie context lists the music director as unknown, 'Bhadrakali' (1976) featured music composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja during the early years of his career, with lyrics penned by Vaali. The film was a major commercial hit directed by A. C. Tirulokchandar.
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