- Lyricist
- Ku. Ma. Balasubramaniam
- Singers
- P. Susheela, K. Rani
- Music director
- T. G. Lingappa
- Movie name
- Ellorum Innaattu Mannar
- Movie release year
- 1960
- Lyrics added on
- 12 Aug 2019
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Vetri Pettra Maamanukku from the 1960 film Ellorum Innaattu Mannar is a satirical folk song that mockingly celebrates a coward's exaggerated victory. A group of women feign admiration for the protagonist's uncle, addressing him as a fighting lion, while humorously pointing out that he ran away from battle and returned covered in bruises on his back. The lyricist Ku. Ma. Balasubramaniam weaves traditional Tamil celebratory customs—such as placing neem garlands, smashing ash gourds to ward off evil eyes, and applying boiled turmeric paste to wounds—into a sharp parody. The song highlights thematic irony and comedic storytelling characteristic of early 1960s Tamil cinema.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Irony / Satire (Vanchi Pugazhchi)
“Vetri pettra maamanukku Veera vaazhthu paadungadi”
Praising a cowardly man as a victorious heroic lion while subtly mocking his retreat from battle.
Metaphor (Uvamai)
“Vaal yendhi poraadum singamadi”
Comparing the uncle to a brave lion wielding a sword in combat.
Alliteration (Emonai / Monai)
“Vetti vetti kuvichu potta Veveramellaam kelungadi”
Repetition of initial consonant sounds 'Ve' across the line.
Did you know?
Trivia
Ellorum Innaattu Mannar (1960) starred Gemini Ganesan and B. Saroja Devi, with music composed by T. G. Lingappa. The song uses traditional folk rhythms like Kummi and Nayyandi Melam to accentuate the rustic, playful ribbing of the characters.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Ellorum Innaattu Mannar
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.