- Lyricist
- Gangai Amaran
- Singer
- Asha Bhosle
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Enga Ooru Pattukaran
- Movie release year
- 1987
- Lyrics added on
- 30 Jun 2017
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Shenbagamae Shenbagamae is a classic Tamil romantic song from the film Enga Ooru Pattukaran (1987). The lyrics express deep, tender affection and painful longing between two lovers. Metaphorically comparing the beloved to the sweet-scented Shenbagam flower and southern sandalwood, the speaker reflects on how sight of the lover brings immense peace, yet distance and societal obstacles cause emotional despair.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamai)
“Shenbagamae shenbagamae / Thenpodhigai sandhanamae”
Compares the beloved to a fragrant Shenbagam flower and sandalwood from the Podhigai hills to highlight sweet purity and beauty.
Repetition / Reduplication (Adukku Thodar)
“Kaathu kaathu ninnenae”
Repeats 'Kaathu' to emphasize the endurance and long duration of waiting for love.
Second-Letter Rhyme (Edhugai)
“Nimmadhi aachu / Vaadidalaachu”
The second consonant sound matches across lines (mm in Nimmadhi / Vaadidalaachu).
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja with lyrics by Gangai Amaran, 'Shenbagamae Shenbagamae' became a massive cultural hit in Tamil Nadu upon its release in 1987. Set in the rare Carnatic raga Sunadhavinodhini, the soundtrack features distinct solo renditions by singers Mano, Asha Bhosle, and Sunanda.
Keep listening
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