- Lyricist
- Sujatha
- Singer
- Ilayaraja
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Marudhanayagam
- Movie release year
- 1997
- Lyrics added on
- 2 Jun 2019
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song from the unreleased magnum opus 'Marudhanayagam' serves as a fiery critique of religious fanaticism, caste discrimination, and social oppression in historical India. It introduces the protagonist, Muhammed Yusuf Khan (born Marudhanayagam Pillai in Panaiyur), tracing his origins from humble beginnings to a historical figure who stood resolutely against hatred and division.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Madham kondu vandhadhu saadhi / Indrum manushana thorathudhu”
The second letters 'da' in 'Madham' and 'Indrum' align rhythmically across consecutive lines.
Monaai (Initial Alliteration)
“Madham kondu vandhadhu saadhi... Manu sonna needhi”
Repetition of the initial sound 'Ma' in 'Madham' and 'Manu'.
Metaphor
“Idhu raththa veri kondu aadura boomi”
Comparing the land driven by communal violence to a entity dancing in bloodlust ('raththa veri kondu aadura boomi').
Allusion
“Muppuram ericha sevanae…ae… / Manu sonna needhi”
References Lord Shiva ('Muppuram ericha sevanae') and the Manusmriti ('Manu sonna needhi') to question religious and social dogmas.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Marudhanayagam' is Kamal Haasan's unreleased historical drama based on the 18th-century warrior Muhammed Yusuf Khan. The film was grandly launched in 1997 by Queen Elizabeth II, with music composed by Ilaiyaraaja.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
Spot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.