- Lyricist
- Panchu Arunachalam
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Gaayathri
- Movie release year
- 1977
- Lyrics added on
- 21 Oct 2018
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
The song 'Vaazhvae maayama' from the 1977 movie Gaayathri is a philosophical contemplation on deception, reality, and existential doubt. It questions whether life is merely a fleeting dream, an illusion, or a destructive storm. The lyricist Panchu Arunachalam contrasts pleasing external appearances with dangerous internal motives—comparing deceptive human gestures to a snake inside a flower, a fire behind a smile, or a sword hidden behind an embrace.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor
“Malarukkul naagam marainthirukkum”
Compares deceitful intentions lurking inside a gentle exterior to a snake hiding inside a blossom.
Antithesis / Imagery
“Siripukku pinnaal neruppirukkum”
Contrasts the warmth of a smile with the destructive nature of hidden malice (fire).
Rhetorical Question
“Verum kanava nijama”
Uses philosophical questioning to evoke existential reflection in the listener.
Rhyme / Assonance (Monai & Ethukai)
“Malarukkul naagam marainthirukkum / Manathukkul mirugam olinthirukkum”
Uses matching initial consonant sounds and syllable structures ('Malarukkul' / 'Manathukkul') to create rhythmic symmetry.
Did you know?
Trivia
Composed by Ilaiyaraaja with lyrics by Panchu Arunachalam, 'Gaayathri' (1977) featured Rajinikanth in a dark, villainous role opposite Sridevi. The haunting track underscores the psychological thrill and hidden sinister motifs central to the plot.
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