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Isaimozhi
Lyrics & meaning

Veera Madha

From Lava Kusa · 1963

Lyricist
A. Maruthakasi
Singer
P. Susheela
Music director
Ghantasala
Details
Lava Kusa1963

Lyrics & meaning

Tanglish lyrics English translation
Female
Veeramaadha kousalyaa devi pettraBorn to the heroic mother, Goddess Kausalya,
Menmai mighu raghuraamanThe highly exalted Raghurama,
Asvamedha yaagam adhu seidhidavaeIn order to perform the grand Ashvamedha sacrifice,
Ennam kondu yaarukkum anjaamalWith resolute intent and fearing no one,
Female
Puravi thannai theeramighu sathruganan soozhaHas released the sacrificial horse, escorted by the valiant Shatrughna,
Inaal dhisai ettum viduthullaanAcross all eight directions on this day.
Idhai padikka maarthatti varum veerar varttumLet the brave warriors who challenge this step forward beating their chests,
Indrael mandiyittu adi panindhu vananga vendumOtherwise, let them kneel and bow down at his feet in surrender.

Beyond the translation

Song interpretation

This passage is a royal proclamation announcing the Ashvamedha Yagna performed by Lord Rama, the glorious descendant of the Raghu dynasty born to Queen Kausalya. Accompanied by his courageous brother Shatrughna, the royal horse is set free to roam across all eight directions as a symbol of unchallenged sovereignty. The decree written on the horse serves as a stern ultimatum to all ruler and warriors across the lands: those with the courage to dispute Lord Rama's supremacy must step forward to fight, while all others must submit, kneel, and offer homage at his feet.

Writing craft

Poetic devices

Monai (Initial Alliteration)

Veeramaadha kousalyaa devi pettra / Menmai mighu raghuraaman

Rhythmic pairing of initial consonantal sounds creating musical cadence across lines.

Veera Rasa (Heroic Diction)

Idhai padikka maarthatti varum veerar varttum / Indrael mandiyittu adi panindhu vananga vendum

Use of evocative, assertive Tamil words such as 'maarthatti' (chest-thumping challenge) and 'mandiyittu' (kneeling) to evoke intense honor, pride, and martial valor.

Did you know?

Trivia

Lava Kusa (1963) was a landmark film and the first full-length color feature in South Indian cinema. Composed by Ghantasala, this specific proclamation song sets up the dramatic conflict of the story: young Lava and Kusa read this challenge attached to the horse's forehead and boldly capture it, leading to a clash with their uncle Shatrughna and eventually Lord Rama himself.

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