- Lyricist
- Muthukoothan
- Music director
- G. Ramanathan
- Movie name
- Arasilangkumari
- Movie release year
- 1961
- Lyrics added on
- 13 Oct 2017
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song from Arasilangkumari (1961) blends folk commentary with romantic expression. The initial section uses the poignant imagery of a fish wriggling helplessly on a hook as a metaphor for how society treats women, folk artists, and the poor—trampling upon them while callous onlookers enjoy their struggle. The lyricist highlights the injustice faced by the downtrodden and vulnerable in a harsh world. The second half shifts tone into romantic adoration, where the protagonist expresses overwhelming love for his beloved, describing her fish-shaped eyes and honey-sweet speech, declaring that even a crore of eyes would not suffice to behold her beauty.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Uvamai (Metaphor/Simile)
“Indha meena pola pennai Ulagham madhikkudhu”
Comparing the plight of women in society to a fish wriggling helplessly after being caught on a hook.
Atiyayokthi (Hyperbole)
“Kaanavae kodi kangal podhathae”
Exaggeration that ten million eyes would not be enough to admire the beauty of the beloved.
Ethirai (Second letter rhyme)
“Thondiyilae / Thudikudhu”
The second letter harmony 'nd' / 'd' across successive lines creating rhythmic flow.
Uruvagham (Metaphorical epithet)
“Meen vizhiyae senthaen mozhiyae”
Describing eyes as fish ('Meen vizhi') and speech as pure honey ('Senthaen mozhi').
Did you know?
Trivia
Arasilangkumari (1961) is a historical adventure-drama film starring M. G. Ramachandran, Padmini, and Rajasree. The soundtrack was primarily composed by G. Ramanathan along with S. M. Subbaiah Naidu. Lyricist Muthukoothan was renowned for inserting sharp socio-political commentaries through earthy folk rhythms in Tamil cinema.
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