- Lyricist
- Kalidasan
- Singer
- Malaysia Vasudevan
- Music director
- Deva
- Movie name
- Gangai Karai Paattu
- Movie release year
- 1995
- Lyrics added on
- 11 Sept 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Ponna Thodaathae' from the film Gangai Karai Paattu (1995) is a moralistic call to action addressed to men regarding the respect and commitment owed to women. Written by lyricist Kalidasan, the song strongly condemns men who play with women's emotions, deceive them in relationships, or abandon them after making promises. It reminds listeners of the power and sacredness of women by citing legendary figures such as Goddess Parvathi, the chaste Kannagi who destroyed an unjust kingdom, and motherly figures in society. The narrator urges men to take responsibility for their actions through marriage rather than leading women to despair, warning that legal consequences (prison) or social dishonor await those who mistreat women.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Emona / Ethukai (Rhyme scheme)
“Ponna thodaathae / Thottaa vidaathae”
Tamil poetic second-letter rhyming seen in lines like 'Ponna' and 'Thottaa' or 'Idhu' and 'Vittu'.
Mythological & Historical Allusion
“Aadhisivan oadambula paadhiyidam pudichcha Parvathiyum oru pombala”
References to historical, literary, and religious figures like Pattinathar, Goddess Parvathi, Kannagi, and Subramanya Bharathi to reinforce moral authority.
Anaphora / Refrain
“Ponna thodaathae / Thottaa vidaathae”
Repetition of the primary warning advice throughout the song to emphasize commitment and moral rectitude.
Did you know?
Trivia
Gangai Karai Paattu (1995) was directed by Manivannan and featured music composed by Deva. The song uses a traditional gaana/folk pace to convey serious social commentary regarding women's rights and male accountability.
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