M. L. Vasanthakumari’s voice poses a direct challenge to fate in “Nalla Veenai Idhe Mannile” from Kannin Manigal. The song, written by Kambadasan and composed by S. V. Venkatraman, questions why something good must be destroyed. It features actors Padmini and M. K. Radha in a scene of despair.

Nalla Veenai Idhe Mannile
M. L. Vasanthakumari • From “Kannin Manigal”
Kannin Manigal’s Nalla Veenai Idhe Mannile Lyrics Translation
Lyricist Kambadasan asks directly if a fine veena should be burned to ruin upon the earth. The words later question if a tiny boat will be consumed by a river’s flood. These images create a feeling of helplessness against a large, indifferent power.
Nalla Veenai Idhe Mannile Music Video
The series of unanswered questions points to a life’s potential being actively extinguished. The Nalla Veenai Idhe Mannile lyrics in English reveal the tragedy of inherent goodness facing destruction. The central insight is a lament against this powerlessness.