- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singer
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
- Music director
- R. D. Burman
- Movie name
- Ulagam Pirandhadhu Enakkaga
- Movie release year
- 1990
- Lyrics added on
- 17 Jan 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This uplifting song is a anthem of optimism, unity, and self-belief. It begins with an individual assertion that the world exists for oneself, but quickly expands into a collective perspective that the universe belongs to everyone. The lyrics encourage people to shed helplessness and fear, warning that hesitation allows even the slow snail to surpass you. By advocating action—carving paths on rocks and turning deserts into gardens—the song highlights human spirit over adversity. In the latter verses, nature's beauty (rivers, moon, stars) is presented as proof that life is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed, promising victory to those who dare to dream big and act boldly.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Anaphora / Repetition
“Ulagam piranthathu enakkaaga / Ulagam piranthathu namakkaaga”
The line 'Ulagam piranthathu...' is repeated extensively, shifting purpose from self-affirmation ('enakkaaga') to collective bonding ('namakkaaga').
Edhukai (Second Letter Rhyme)
“Paarai maelae paadhai podu / Paalai engum thottam podu”
Matching of the second consonant sound 'rai'/'lai'/'ga' across consecutive lines alongside identical endings ('podu').
Metaphor
“Maegamthaanae unthan veedu”
The lyrics metaphorically describe clouds as one's residence, symbolizing unlimited potential and reaching great heights.
Did you know?
Trivia
The opening refrain 'Ulagam Pirandhadhu Enakkaga' references a legendary MGR song composed by Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy for the 1962 movie 'Paasam', retaining the same theme of optimistic self-reliance and brotherhood.
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