- Lyricist
- Isaignani Ilayaraja
- Singer
- Ilayaraja
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Nandalala
- Movie release year
- 2009
- Lyrics added on
- 7 Apr 2026
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Thaalattu ketkka naanum' from the film Nandalala portrays a deeply emotional and poignant search for maternal love and reconciliation. The protagonist longs to hear a mother's lullaby after years of yearning and separation. Upon meeting his mother, he is struck by her vulnerability and realizes that she now resembles a helpless child herself, reversing the roles of caregiver and dependent.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Edhugai (Second letter rhyming)
“Thaalattu ketkka naanum / Ethanai naal kaathirundhen”
Rhyming of the second letter in consecutive lines, such as 'Thaalattu' and 'Ethanai' (the 'tha'/'tha' sound structure) or 'Sangiliyaal' / 'Sangiliyaal'.
Simile (Upamai)
“Ippo unna paatha / Pacha pulla polae”
Comparing the mother's current vulnerable state to an innocent newborn baby ('Pacha pulla polae').
Metaphor (Uruvagaim)
“Amma ennum poova / Pothi kaakka naanum undu”
Directly referring to the mother as a delicate flower that needs to be protected ('Amma ennum poova').
Rhetorical Question
“Anbe oru thunbamaa….”
Asking questions to emphasize emotional distress, such as whether love itself brings agony.
Did you know?
Trivia
Nandalala was written, directed by, and starred Mysskin, inspired by the Japanese film 'Kikujiro'. The film's soundtrack and background score were composed by Ilaiyaraaja, who also penned and sang this emotional track. The song serves as the central emotional anchor of the film, capturing the essence of filial longing and empathy.
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