- Lyricist
- Kannadasan
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- Ibrahim
- Movie name
- Vazhikatti
- Movie release year
- 1965
- Lyrics added on
- 29 Apr 2023
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song from 'Vazhikatti' (1965) is a playful debate song centered on the timeless question of who possesses greater beauty—men or women. The lyrics clever use examples from the animal kingdom (such as the stag's horns, peacock's feathers, rooster's comb, and lion's mane) to humorously argue that nature often grants the grandest adornments to males. As the song progresses, it shifts into teasing modern, stylish young men with lighthearted hyperbole, describing their flashy attire and proud demeanor with comedic flair.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamaani)
“Vel vizhiyin asaivinilae”
Comparing sharp, captivating eyes to a spear ('Vel vizhiyin') to symbolize their power to subdue others.
Rhetorical Question
“Aangalo pengaloo”
Asking 'Is it men or women?' ('Aangalo pengaloo') to set up the central theme of the playful debate.
Ethugai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Singaara sittugalae / Sivandha roja mottugalae”
The second letters 'nga' in 'Singaara' and 'Sivandha' match across consecutive lines.
Hyperbole (Uyarvu Navortchi)
“Azhagil ivaru everest”
Exaggerating the protagonist's handsome appearance to the towering height of Mount Everest ('Azhagil ivaru everest').
Did you know?
Trivia
'Vazhikatti' (1965) features a rare musical score by composer Ibrahim. Lyricist Kannadasan demonstrates his penchant for witty, nature-inspired debates in this song, using zoological examples to flip traditional gendered notions of ornamental beauty.
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