- Lyricist
- Muthulingam
- Singer
- Janaki
- Music director
- M. S. Vishwanathan
- Movie name
- Sirai
- Movie release year
- 1984
- Lyrics added on
- 6 Jan 2023
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Paaththukko' from Sirai (1984) is a captivating track that blends alluring romantic expressions with sharp social critique. Performed in a courtesan or brothel environment, the singer initially presents herself using vivid poetic imagery—describing her beauty as a colorful parrot, a delicate flowering vine, and a treasure house of gems.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvagaimai)
“Paaththukko….intha panjavarna poongiliyai”
The woman compares herself to a five-colored parrot ('panjavarna poongili'), a silk vine ('pattu vanna poongidi'), and an unread book ('katti vacha puththakam').
Edhukai (Second-letter Rhyming)
“Mottu vitta mullaikodi thulluthu / Muththamittu ottikkolla solluthu”
The second consonant 'tt' (ட்) rhymes between lines, creating a rhythmic and lyrical bounce.
Irony and Social Satire (Maranu / Sledai)
“Naalthorum kannagiyin karputhanai sonnathenna / Yae oorthorum kanniyarai thedi kondu vanthathenna”
The lyricist contrasts the public moralizing about Kannagi's chastity with the private hypocrisy of men seeking courtesans.
Did you know?
Trivia
Directed by R. C. Sakthi, 'Sirai' is known for addressing sensitive social topics concerning women and morality. Musician M. S. Viswanathan utilized S. Janaki's expressive voice to switch masterfully between playful flirtation and stinging social commentary in this song.
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