- Lyricist
- Ilaiya Bharathi
- Singer
- Malaysia Vasudevan
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Alai Osai
- Movie release year
- 1985
- Lyrics added on
- 25 Oct 2018
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Poraadadaa from Alai Osai (1985) is an intense revolutionary anthem calling for resistance, dignity, and socio-political emancipation for oppressed communities. Lyricist Ilaiya Bharathi uses fiery imagery—such as sleeping tigers awakening, sparks turning into forest fires, and payback for physical and societal trauma—to inspire unity and rebellion against caste-based discrimination.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvagandham)
“Vengaigalo ini thoongaadhadaa”
Comparing the oppressed masses to sleeping tigers ('Vengaigal') that are awakening to reclaim their freedom.
Initial Alliteration (Monnai)
“Sinna poriyae perum analaagumae / Singa inamae ezhumae”
Repetition of initial consonant sounds ('Si') creating a sharp, rhythmic tone in a revolutionary line.
Rhetorical Question
“Alaigalum oindhu pogumo..ooo”
Asking if the waves or mountains can ever be subdued, metaphorically reinforcing that the movement for justice is relentless.
Did you know?
Trivia
Alai Osai (1985) is a Tamil film focused on rural class struggle and social injustice, directed by Sirumugai Ravi. The lyrics reference 'Nandan'—a legendary figure in Tamil lore representing marginalized devotion and battle against institutionalized exclusion.
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