- Lyricist
- Ra. Pazhanisami
- Singer
- C. S. Jayaraman
- Music director
- V. Dakshinamurthy
- Movie name
- Ulagam Sirikirathu
- Movie release year
- 1959
- Lyrics added on
- 8 Feb 2024
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This classic philosophical track serves as a stark commentary on human arrogance, betrayal, and the law of karma. It laments how humans are nurtured with love and education, yet grow up to betray friends, disrespect parents, and mistreat women. The central motif is the world or destiny looking on with a mocking smile as foolish individuals bring about their own eventual downfall through wicked deeds.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Refrain
“Ulagam sirikkudhada manidha”
The phrase 'Ulagam sirikkudhada' (The world is laughing, O man) is repeated throughout the song to constantly emphasize the central theme of moral irony.
Metaphor
“Pesum malaraam pengalai”
Describing women as 'talking flowers' (Pesum malar) to highlight their delicacy, innocence, and beauty.
Metaphor
“Veesum neruppaam karppilae”
Comparing a woman's virtue and chastity (Karppu) to a raging fire (Veesum neruppu) that can consume evil.
Hyperbole
“Kangal irandilum kadalai perukki”
Exaggerating a person's intense weeping as multiplying or creating an entire ocean in both eyes.
Edhugai (Tamil Second-letter Rhyme)
“Anbilae pirandhu valarndhu / Vambil azhiyum nilaiyai kandu”
The second consonant 'nb' in 'Anbilae' rhymes with 'mb' in 'Vambil', creating rhythmic harmony.
Did you know?
Trivia
Sung with dramatic theatrical flair by the iconic C. S. Jayaraman, this song reflects the socio-philosophical tone prevalent in 1950s Tamil cinema, composed by legendary musician V. Dakshinamurthy.
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