- Lyricist
- Mayavanathan
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- R. Sudharsanam
- Movie name
- Poompuhar
- Movie release year
- 1964
- Lyrics added on
- 16 Jan 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Thamizh Engal Uyiraanadhu is a classical dance song from the 1964 epic movie Poompuhar, written by lyricist Mayavanathan. The song glorifies the Tamil language as the vital life force of Tamil people, exalting its everlasting nature that withstands time and fire. It draws striking imagery, characterizing Tamil as sweet milk to its lovers and a sharp spear to its adversaries.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Simile (Upamai)
“Padipporkku paal pondradhu / Thannai pagaipporkku vael pondradhu”
Compares reading Tamil to nourishing milk (paal pondradhu) and opposing Tamil to a sharp spear (vael pondradhu).
Metaphor (Uruvagam)
“Kalai thaeril sathiraadum Thamizh engal uyiraanadhu”
Metaphorically portrays Tamil as a living entity dancing gracefully upon the chariot of fine arts.
Initial Rhyme (Monai)
“Padipporkku paal pondradhu”
Repetition of initial consonants 'Pa' creating rhythmic harmony in Tamil poetry.
Hyperbole (Ushaiyokthi / Audharya)
“Kandu aadavar ullam salladai kannaagattum”
Exaggerates the onlookers' mesmerized state, suggesting their hearts turn into sieves made of eyes.
Did you know?
Trivia
Poompuhar (1964) is a cinematic adaptation of the ancient Tamil epic Silappatikaram, written by Ilango Adigal. The film's powerful dialogues were penned by M. Karunanidhi, and this dance sequence reflects the classic Sangam era aesthetic.
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