Aalaya Maniyin Osai, Paalum Pazhamum (1961)

Aalaya Maniyin Osai Naan Ketten is a classic Tamil song from the 1961 film Paalum Pazhamum. Written by the legendary lyricist Kannadasan and sung by P. Susheela, the song is a metaphorical expression of spiritual and romantic devotion.

The English meaning of the key lyrics is as follows:

Aalaya maniyin osaiyai naan ketten: "I heard the sound of the temple bell." The temple bell symbolises a divine or sacred awakening.

Arul mozhi koorum paravaigal oli ketten: "I heard the voices of birds that speak words of grace." It suggests that nature itself is conveying a divine message.

Ilagum maalai pozhuthinilae, en iraivan vandhaan thaerinilae: "In the softening evening time, my Lord came in a chariot." This represents the arrival of a beloved or a divine presence during a peaceful hour.

Yezhaiyin illam idhu endraan, iru vizhiyaalae maalaiyittaan: "He said, 'This is the home of a poor person,' and he garlanded me with his two eyes." This metaphor describes being chosen or loved deeply despite one's humble status.

Un iraivan avanae avanae... un thalaivan avanae avanae: "He is your God... he is your leader/husband." This line, often attributed to a mother's voice in the song, reinforces that the person being described is the ultimate source of authority and love.

Kaadhal koyil naduvinilae, karunai dhevan madiyinilae: "In the center of the temple of love, on the lap of the God of Mercy." This depicts a state of total surrender and peace within a loving relationship or spiritual bond.

Core Themes

Devotion as Love: The song blurs the lines between a woman's love for her husband and a devotee's love for God, portraying her partner as a divine figure.

Divine Intervention: The recurring mentions of temple bells and "words of grace" suggest that her love is blessed by a higher power.

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