- Lyricist
- Mayavanathan
- Singers
- Malaysia Vasudevan, K. Swarna
- Music director
- V. Kumar
- Movie name
- Delhi To Madras
- Movie release year
- 1972
- Lyrics added on
- 29 May 2023
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
'Paalu vikkira paththummaa' from the 1972 film 'Delhi To Madras' is a humorous duet between a tea shop owner and a milkmaid named Pathumma. Through witty banter, the characters exchange playful quips about love, marriage, tea-making, and historical lovers like Ambikapathi and Anarkali. They weigh the practical side of romance against business concerns like cash flow at the tea counter. Composed by V. Kumar with lyrics by Mayavanathan, the song features energetic vocals by Malaysia Vasudevan and K. Swarna. Its lighthearted rhythm and folk-style comedy make it a lively highlight of the movie's soundtrack.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Monorhyme / Rhyme (Iyaibu)
“Paalu vikkira paththummaa / Un paalu rompa suththamma”
The repetition of 'mmii' / '-mmaa' endings ('paththummaa', 'suththamma', 'vetkkammaa', 'michchammaa') creates a rhythmic, musical cadence across the refrain.
Alliteration (Monaai)
“Palichchinnu kettuduvaen / Pattunnu thookki pottuduvaen”
Repetition of initial phonetic sounds such as 'Palichchinnu' and 'Pattunnu' provides an upbeat, energetic acoustic flow.
Metaphor
“Thaeyilaiyum paalum saera / Enna undaagum ... Single tea aagum”
Comparing life and love to 'single tea' made from mixing milk and tea leaves symbolises simple, everyday working-class realities.
Did you know?
Trivia
This fun duet features early playback singing work by iconic singer Malaysia Vasudevan, showcasing his signature comic timing and energetic delivery alongside K. Swarna.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Delhi To Madras
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.