- Lyricist
- A. Maruthakasi
- Singer
- Ghantasala
- Music director
- S. Dakshinamurthi
- Movie name
- Yaar Paiyyan
- Movie release year
- 1957
- Lyrics added on
- 30 Jul 2019
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This philosophical song from the movie 'Yaar Paiyyan' (1957), written by A. Maruthakasi, questions human ethics, selfless living, and moral integrity. It asks man to contemplate whether selfish desire (Suyanalam) or common social welfare (Podhu nalam) should take priority in life. It challenges the listener to look beyond mental confusion and hesitation, emphasizing that true joy cannot exist without enduring pain, and that a heart lacking love is devoid of humanity.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Thunbam illaamalae / Inbam undaagumaa”
The second consonant 'ya' matches across 'Suyanalam' and 'Podhu nalam' (or 'Suyanalam' / 'Indha'), and 'Thunbam' / 'Inbam' where second letter 'n' matches.
Contrast / Antithesis
“Thendral puyalaavadhaa / Ullam theeyaavadhaa”
Juxtaposition of opposing concepts such as sweet mango fruit (Thaemaangani) vs bitter neem (Vaembaagumaa), and gentle breeze (Thendral) vs storm (Puyal).
Rhetorical Question
“Anbu illaadha idhayam idhayamaa”
The lyricist poses philosophical questions to provoke introspective thought rather than expecting a literal direct answer.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Yaar Paiyyan' (1957) is a classic Tamil comedy-drama starring Gemini Ganesan and Savitri. The music was composed by S. Dakshinamurthi. The lyrics by Kavi A. Maruthakasi are known for incorporating deep philosophical wisdom into accessible cinema songs.
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