- Lyricist
- Kannadasan
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- S. M. Subbaiah Naidu
- Movie name
- Kavi Raja Kalamegam
- Movie release year
- 1978
- Lyrics added on
- 7 Dec 2023
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
'Yaaraaga Irunthaal Enna' is a social critique and philosophical song penned by Kannadasan for the film 'Kavi Raja Kalamegam' (1978). The song questions societal discrimination, rigid caste structures, and artificial social hierarchies. By asserting that kings and beggars are equal before the Supreme Lord, the lyrics champion universal human rights—such as the freedom to see, hear, think, and love without prejudice. Furthermore, the song addresses gender inequality, questioning why society imposes restrictive barriers exclusively on women's freedom of movement and vision. Referencing sacred unions like Lord Shiva and Meenakshi, Kannadasan points out that divine relationships are not bound by mortal caste systems. Ultimately, the song delivers a strong message demanding social equality, freedom, and dignity for all individuals.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Muran (Antithesis)
“Idhil arasanenna illai aandiyenna”
Juxtaposes 'Arasan' (King) and 'Aandi' (Beggar) to highlight contrast and emphasize absolute equality before God.
Rhetorical Question
“Sivanukku umaiyenna aththai magalaa”
Uses rhetorical questioning about divine kinship to challenge man-made caste rules and social constructs.
Iyaipu (End Rhyme)
“Ponnukko illai pugazhukko / Vinnukko illai mannukko”
Repeats the trailing sound '-ukko' across lines 31 and 34 to establish rhythmic balance and emphasis.
Alliteration / Monai
“Kannukkor thadai kaalukkor thadai”
Repetition of the initial 'Ka' sound ('Kannukkor' and 'Kaalukkor') creates rhythm and underscores the obstacles placed on women.
Did you know?
Trivia
The film 'Kavi Raja Kalamegam' (1978) dramatizes the life of the famous 15th-century Tamil poet Kalamega Pulavar, known for his sharp wit, satire, and 'Sledai' (double-meaning verses). Lyricist Kannadasan skillfully incorporated contemporary egalitarian themes into this song while retaining classical Tamil mythological references, sung with expressive vigor by P. Susheela under the music direction of veteran composer S. M. Subbaiah Naidu.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Kavi Raja Kalamegam
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.