Thaane Mulaitha Maram, Itho Enthan Deivam (1972)

The song "Thaane Mulaitha Maram" from the 1972 Tamil film Itho Enthan Deivam is a philosophical and emotional melody. Written by Kannadasan and sung by T.M. Soundararajan, the lyrics use the metaphor of a tree that grew on its own to reflect on identity, destiny, and human relationships.

The English translation of the core themes and lyrics includes:

Self-Grown Identity: The title phrase "Thaane mulaiththa maram" means "A tree that sprouted on its own". It describes a person who has grown up alone or without traditional support, wondering why they were even born.

Destiny and Karma: The lyrics mention being lost halfway in the "forest of desire" (Aasai ennum kaattukkulle). The singer reflects that while they are suffering, it is due to their own past "sins" or karma, not the fault of the child they are addressing.

Lack of Traditional Roots: The song laments a lack of formal upbringing—"Paal kudiththa paasam illai, palli sentra paadam illai"—meaning there was no motherly affection (nursing) or formal schooling.

Divinity in Humanity: In a pivotal verse, the singer states that even stones have hearts and tears, and they see God within the person they are addressing (En deivathai unnidam kandenamma).

Parental Longing: The singer notes that while they never grew up in a cradle (Thottilil vaazhnthathillai), being called "Father" (Appan) by the child has allowed their imagination and sense of purpose to grow.

Thaane mulaiththa maram - A tree that sprouted on its own
Thaniyaaga valarntha maram -A tree that grew up all alone
Yaen mulaiththendraayo... enakke theriyaathamma - You ask why I sprouted... even I do not know, my dear
Oorukku naan yaaraamma... uravukku nee yaaraamma - Who am I to this world? Who are you to this relationship?
En deivathai unnidam kandenamma - I saw my God within you

The song ultimately conveys the idea that God is found not just in temples, but in the innocent love and kindness shared between human beings.

[Disclaimer: This video clip is posted for viewing pleasure and as an archive for good old Tamil songs. By this, I do not wish to violate any copyright owned by the owner of the song / Movie. I do not own any copyright for the song. If posting the song violates the copyright you own, then please let me know, and I will remove it from YouTube. If you like the song, then please buy the original Movie/Song CD from the copyright owner of the movie.]