Chithoor Nagaiya’s “Karunai Ullame” from the album Jaya Gopi features lyrics by Kannadasan and music by Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy. It opens by questioning if a compassionate heart exists anywhere in the world. The song is a direct appeal on behalf of abandoned children.
Karunai Ullame
Chithoor Nagaiya • From “Jaya Gopi”
Lyricist
Kannadasan
Composer
Viswanathan – Ramamoorthy
Jaya Gopi’s Karunai Ullame Lyrics Translation
The verses ask if children who lose their parents must become a burden on the earth. In response, the lyrics state the holy cow provides milk and Mother Earth sings lullabies. The sun and moon are identified as family for these children.
Karunai Ullame IllaiyaIs there no compassionate heart?
Jagaththinil KaninthaIn all the world, is there no
Nenjame Illaiyagentle soul?
Karunai Ullame IllaiyaIs there no compassionate heart?
Jagaththinil KaninthaIn all the world, is there no
Nenjame Illaiyagentle soul?
Karunai Ullame IllaiyaIs there no compassionate heart?
Thanthai Thai IzhanthuHaving lost their father and mother
Vattam Kollumand now facing hardship,
Siru Pillaigalmust these little children
Puvikke Param Avathabecome a burden to the Earth?
Thanthai Thai IzhanthuAfter losing their mother and father,
Vattam Kollumand while they are suffering,
Siru Pillaigaldo these small children
Puvikke Param Avathatruly become a weight upon this world?
Karunai Ullame IllaiyaIs there no compassionate heart?
Jagaththinil KaninthaIn all the world, is there no
Nenjame Illaiyagentle soul?
Komathathan Palloottum Matha‘Komaathaa’, the holy cow, is the mother who gives milk
Poodevithan Thalattum Matha‘Poodevithaan’, Mother Earth, is the one who sings lullabies
Komathathan Palloottum MathaThe sacred cow is the mother who nurses them
Poodevithan Thalattum MathaMother Earth is the one who cradles them to sleep
Sooriya Chandhirare PanthukkaleThe sun and the moon are their family
Sooriya Chandhirare PanthukkaleThe sun and the moon are their own kin
Intha JegamellamThis entire world,
Piriyamana Illangal Thaneis a beloved home, isn’t it?
Karunai Ullame IllaiyaIs there no compassionate heart?
Jagaththinil KaninthaIn all the world, is there no
Nenjame Illaiyagentle soul?
Asai Pasam Pesunth ThendraleOh, gentle breeze that speaks of love and affection,
Anathai Kisikkalin Sinegithaneyou are the friend to these orphaned little ones.
Asai Pasam Pesunth ThendraleOh, whispering wind that carries love and warmth,
Anathai Kisikkalin Sinegithaneyou are a true friend to the parentless children.
This song shifts from a sharp complaint to a source of philosophical comfort. It redefines family for the orphaned, presenting nature as the ultimate caregiver. The meaning of the ‘Karunai Ullame’ lyrics is found in this journey from social despair to natural solace.
