- Lyricist
- Muthulingam
- Singers
- S. Janaki, B. Sasirekha, Chorus
- Music director
- Devendran
- Movie name
- Mannukkul Vairam
- Movie release year
- 1986
- Lyrics added on
- 26 Dec 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This folk track from Mannukkul Vairam (1986) captures the traditional Tamil ritual of 'Mulaipari' (sprouted grain pots) celebrated in honor of Goddess Muthumariamman. The village women prepare fertile soil, sow nine types of grains (Navadhanyam), nurture them carefully with river water, and celebrate the healthy growth of sprouts as an omen of agricultural prosperity and rain.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Folk Refrain (Simai / Rettai Kilavi pattern)
“Chorus :Thaanaanae thaanaanae thaanaanae thaanaanae”
The continuous repetition of 'Thaanaanae' acts as the rhythmic folk refrain essential for rural group dance (Kummi) performed around the Mulaipari pots.
Monai / Alliteration
“Female :Molap paavi valarththu vanthom muththumaari ammanukku”
The initial sound 'M' is repeated ('Molap', 'muththumaari'), producing a harmonious melodic rhythm characteristic of Tamil folk poetry.
Cultural Imagery
“Female :Chinnaala pattukkala seerudanae thaanuduththu”
References traditional South Tamil regional elements like Chinnalapatti silk sarees, jasmine flower garlands, and Mettupatti temple rituals.
Metaphor / Endearment
“Female :Molappaari parappungammaa muththu muththu pengalellaam”
Describing women as 'muththu muththu pengal' (pearl-like women) highlights purity, beauty, and communal togetherness.
Did you know?
Trivia
The 'Mulaipari' ritual depicted in this song is a major folk festival event in Southern Tamil Nadu, particularly during the Tamil month of Aadi. Written by lyricist Muthulingam, the song authenticates traditional worship where women offer sprouted grains and carry 'Maavilakku' (lamps made of rice flour and ghee) to pray for monsoon rains.
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