- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singer
- Malaysia Vasudevan
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Poruthathu Podhum
- Movie release year
- 1989
- Lyrics added on
- 26 Aug 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is a passionate social critique and cry against corruption, moral decay, and systemic injustice. Through vivid rural Tamil metaphors, the narrator laments a world where protectors fail, medicine cannot cure, and even the village guardian deity is stolen—symbolizing complete societal breakdown. The song contrasts the plight of innocent, virtuous folk suffering in poverty with wealthy, wicked oppressors who manipulate the law to suit themselves.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor & Irony
“Veppamaram noyilae vaithiyarum paaiyilae / Kaaval kaakum ayyanarum kalavu ponaarae”
Comparing remedies and protectors (neem tree, doctor, Ayyanar deity) to broken, diseased, or stolen entities highlights complete systemic breakdown.
Mona (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Kaaval kaakum ayyanarum kalavu ponaarae”
Repetition of the 'Ka' consonant sound across lines creates rhythmic urgency.
Contrast (Antithesis)
“Ola kudisaiyila oru uthami chella kannu / Maaligai manjathilae oru maanida pei onnu”
Juxtaposes the humble, virtuous woman in a thatched hut with the evil wealthy man on a palace bed.
Metaphor of Resilience
“Pullaa pulikuttiya konja poru annaachi”
Compares the protagonist to a tiger cub ('pulikutti') mistaken for weak grass, signifying impending retaliation.
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Trivia
Lyricist Vaali frequently used vivid village allegories (like Ayyanar, neem trees, and cattle sheds) to convey sharp political and legal ironies, making deep philosophical commentary easily accessible through folk-style rhythm.
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