- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singers
- Malaysia Vasudevan, S. Janaki
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Muthal Mariyathai
- Movie release year
- 1985
- Lyrics added on
- 21 Dec 2017
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
"Ye Kuruvi" is a playful, rustic bit song from the landmark film 'Muthal Mariyathai' (1985). It takes the form of a lighthearted dialogue involving a sparrow as a metaphor for freedom, innocence, and companionship. The male protagonist, feeling isolated in a loveless marriage, invites a little bird to build a nest in his house and keep him company with its song while his stern wife is away.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Adukkuthodar (Repetition)
“Kuruvi kuruvi”
The word 'kuruvi' (sparrow) is repeated successively to express affection, rhythm, and playful endearment.
Personification
“Ippa pondaati illai / Vanthu enkooda paadu..”
The bird is humanized as a companion invited to sing together and share moments with the protagonist.
Colloquial Metaphor / Cultural Idiom
“Kodakkoozhi keppaa”
'Kodakkoozhi' refers to a hen kept in a pot for brooding in rural Tamil households; here it metaphorically represents a fine or demanding toll extracted by an overbearing spouse.
Did you know?
Trivia
This snippet captures the authentic rural flavor of 'Muthal Mariyathai' (1985), directed by Bharathiraja with iconic music composed by Ilaiyaraaja and lyrics by Vairamuthu. The song highlights the carefree, playful dynamic between Malaichami (played by Sivaji Ganesan) and Kuyil (played by Radha), set against the backdrop of village life.
Keep listening
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