- Lyricist
- Kambadasan
- Singer
- P. Leela
- Music director
- Paamarthi
- Movie name
- Bala Nagamma
- Movie release year
- 1960
- Lyrics added on
- 21 Jun 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is a tender lullaby sung to soothe young ones, affectionately addressing them as sweet parrots ('premai kilikaal'). The lyrics convey themes of divine guardian protection and maternal warmth, illustrating how a benevolent serpent acts like a protective mother whenever danger manifests on earth. Composed by Paamarthi with lyrics by Kambadasan and sung sweetly by P. Leela, the song radiates peace, maternal affection, and spiritual reassurance through its rhythmic refrains.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvagaim)
“Thaalae thaalae en premai kilikaal thaalae”
Addressing the loved ones as sweet green parrots ('premai kilikaal' / 'paingilikaal') and describing the benevolent cobra as a mother ('annaiyaagum').
Edhugai (Second letter rhyming)
“Perarulilae annaiyaagum / Perumai vaainthathindrae”
The second letter 'ra' rhymes across 'Perarulilae' and 'Perumai'.
Repetition (Anaphora / Rhythm)
“Thaalae thaalae en premai kilikaal thaalae”
The word 'Thaalae' (lullaby) is repeated to create a soothing rhythmic effect suitable for a lullaby.
Did you know?
Trivia
The legend of Bala Nagamma is one of the most famous folkloric tales in South India, featuring dramatic themes of divine serpents acting as guardians. This 1960 Tamil film adaptation featured music by Paamarthi, with prominent tracks sung by legendary vocalist P. Leela.
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