MGR film songs are always popular

[Oldposts]

Topic started by Chandrasekaran (mcsekar@cyberway.com.sg) (@ proxyf6.cyberway.com.sg) on Tue Jul 15 22:50:42 EDT 1997.

[Oldposts]

One cannot dispute that MGR film songs are always popular. Is it because of the tune or lyrics or something else ?

[Oldposts]

Adhu onnum pramaadham illEnga. Aadhi kaalaththilirundhu
famous directors such as Sidhar, Bheemsingh,
Balachander, Bharathiraja, Shanker pannadhaiththaan
MGR-um panninaar. Adhaavadhu, avangalukku
pidichcha nalla MD-yai first select pannipputtu
appuram full satisfaction varra varaikkum MD-yaiyum
singers-aiyum pottu puzhinju edukkuradhu.
Avvalavudhaan. In the case of MGR (same with
famous producers such as AVM) it seems the
movie director first went to the MD, conveyed
the request for the songs and they made the
tunes; indha stage mudindha piraguthaan MGR
azhaikkap paduvaar. MGR potta tunes-kalai
ketka varuvaar: ellorum nagaththai kadichchuttu
tension-udan, avar enna sollap pOraarunnu
paaththittu iruppaanga. MGR paadhiyilE "chee
tune nallaa illE, marupadi vErE tune pOdunga"
endru sollittu gidu-gidunnu
ezhundhu walk-out pannuvadhu romba common endru
naan kELvippattirukkEn. MGR Films U.Su.Vaa
padaththirkku MSV patta kashtaththai oru
pEttiyil avar nallaa varNichchu irukkaar.
Mellisai Mannar-ai nallaa thittiyirukkaar
MGR indha pada music pOttappa! "Enna Viswanathan
ennOda kaalai vaari vittuduveenga pOlirukkE"
endru kooda sonnaaraam. Andha padam songs ellaam
pottu mudiththapin Mellisai Mannarai veettukku
azhaiththaaraam MGR; vandha MSV-yai katti
aNaichchukkittu MGR sonnaaraam: neenga indha
padaththukku pOttadhu ellaam vilai uyarndha
muththukkal; vERu yaarum enakku ippadi
pOttirukka mudiyaathu, endru. Sollivittu
kaiyil oru suitcase koduththaaraam. Veettukku
vandhu open panni paarththa MSV vaayai poLandhuttaar.
YEnnaa, avvalavu panaththai life-il avar paarththathE illai.
Ambuttudhaanga MGR padangalil paadalgal
hit aavadharkku kaaranam: MDs + singers-ai
pOttu puzhiyarathu; adhE samayaththil nallaa
pay-yum pannuradhu. Directors like Sridhar-um
idhE pOl thaan; "nenjam marappadhillai"
paattukku VR-aiyum, "poo maalaiyil Or malligai"
paattukku TMS-PS-aiyum evvalavu vElai vaanginaar
avar endru ellOrukkum theriyum. Adhellaam
andha kaalaththOda pOchchunnu ninaikkirEn. IppO
good music + hit songs is highly dependant on
whether the MD sets his mind or not; MDs don't
get kicked around by directors/actors/producers
anymore.

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I should not be responding to this discussion since I have always beleived that Sivaji movie songs were of better material and class.
Aana yenner pandrathu - vaayeh vachikittu summa irukka mudiyileyei.
Most of MGR songs were motivational and about society at large.
And then off course there was his personality. Just like today when Rajni's fans go aha oho about the trashy songs from Arunachalam - MGR's songs just couldn't be wrong with his fans.

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Apart from his strong influence, I think MGR had good tastes
for music. Ippa paarunga, Rajni-ukkum thaan nalla
influence irukku, but "Arunachalam" pada paadalgalai
kekka mudiyuthaa.. (Rajni, deva rasigargalE kobam vendaam.
Ithu en sontha karuthu.)
Nalla music taste ullavanga ippallam kuraichukitte varaanga.
Puthusaa vanthirukkaravangalla, Agathiyan-ukku nalla
rasanai irukku. Ennaa, deva kitterunthe (meendum mannika
deva rasigargal) nalla nalla paadalgalai vaangi vidugiraare!

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MGR MDsai pilingi eppadi music vaanguvarunnu Shanker-Ganesh oru Int. "perumaya" sonnanga! (Pity those guys!) I think it was Idhaya Veenai!MGR tunes poda solli vovvoru tuna reject pannikitte vandharam! Evening varaikkum sumaar 100 tunes mudinthu vittadham! No signs of MGR selecting any of the 100 tunes! Guys S-G were almost pissed-off by MGRs behaviour! Now MGR gives the shock treatment! He suddenly asked S-G to play tune numbers 16, 45, 75, etc., once again. S-G & Co were immensely pleased. They finally thought they had hit the jackpot! MGR listened to those selected tunes and asked S-G to COMBINE all those tunes into one tune for just one song!!! Howzzat?
I don remember the song! But supposedly a hit in Ihdayaveenai! Could anyone recollect that song?!
Did S-G score music for MGR after that? I don think so!!!(Oru pattukku nooru tunna 5 pattukku 500 tune aache!!!)

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S -G scored music for 'Naan Yen Piranthen' after IthayaVeenai. Both movies were produced by Manian.

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The most often played songs from "Idhaya Veenai" are the TMS solo "Kashmir Beautiful Kashmir" and the TMS-PS duet "Ponn Andhi Maalai Pozhudhu". The other song is "Thiru Nirai Selvi Mangayarkarasi". Which one of these is the combination of five tunes?

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I think it was ponn andhi maalai. Let me know if there were changes in the song as regards the tune .

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There is a TMS-Janaki song in Idhaya Veenai:
aanandham indru aanandham.

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In response to Nammaooru:

I agree with you that Sivaji's films also had
excellent music; but this was because he acted
mostly under excellent directors and they made
sure that great tunes were made by the MDs.
If you take old movies acted by Sivaji under
vague directors, e.g., Anjal Petti 520 or some
such movies, there were no good songs in
them; and look at what happened in the movies
of Sivaji after 1978 or so: all were cheap makes
by vague producers and directors and no good
songs. On the other hand, even the last movie
of MGR (was it M.Meetta Su. Pandian) had
great hits. MGR made sure that all his movies
had great songs. Of course there are exceptions
(can we list a few?), but that happened because
MGR had agreed to act for some producer, but did
not have time to follow-up the music creation.
I fully agree with Rajaraman that MGR had a
very good taste for music.

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I feel that MGR took more interest in the songs of the movie than Sivaji. I have read SPB telling that MGR waited for 3 months for SPB to get back from his illness and sing for him in '1000 nilavE vaa'. Sivaji, I think, does not take so much pains as far as the songs are concerned.

Moreover, we cannot compare Rajini and MGR as far as songs are concerned. Recently, Rajini songs are hit only because they are Rajini's songs. pEththal songs like 'kuluvaalilE', 'vidukadhaiyaa', 'nagumO' etc are listened by people only because of the Rajini factor.

But in MGR's case, the songs defenitely had a class by absolute standards. Songs from paNam padaiththavan, padagOtti, u. su. vaaliban would have been hit even otherwise.

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I know Satya has taken Anjal Petti 520 as an example. But it has one good song - 10 16 muttham muttham by TMS. Also in the late 70's when Sivaji was giving flops one after another (Dr Siva, Utthaman, Ilaya thalimurai etc..
but some of these movies had some good songs) it was Deepam (MD IR) that resurrected his market. Deepam had 2 good songs - Andhapurathil oru maharani - TMS&SJ and Poovizhi vasalil - KJ&SJ and excellent BGM. After Deepam, Sivaji had some decent hits in Annan oru koil (MSV), Andhamaan Kadhali(MSV) and Thyagam(IR).

Ravi

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Ravi:

I wouldn't rate "10-16 muththam muththam" as
"quite ordinary" only. Also, the movies that
you are mentioning acted by Shivaji are not
the ones that I was pointing out. I was
mentioning about those which came even
after, say after 1980 or so.

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I remember Pattakathi Bairavan, in spite of the title, had some nice songs. What movies are you particularly refering to?

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To Vadi Velu,

A couple of nice duets from PKB are

Davadha Oru devadhai - SPB&SJ
Engengo selleum - SPB & SJ

Some of the Sivaji movies released in the 80's

1. Dharmaraja
2. Sandhippu
3. Sangili
4. Mridanga Chakravarthy
5. Rishimoolam (a few good songs in there)
6. Thyagi
7. Amarakavyam (remake of Muquadar ka sikandhar - spelling?)
8. Pilot premnath (late 70's?)
9. Keezh vanam sivakkum

I'm not counting Mudhal mariyadhai. If these are the movies Sathya meant, then I fully agree with him. But MGR's last movie MMSPandiyan came in 1977. Wouldn't be fair to comapre films of these 2 people from a common period?

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Ravi:

If you look at the later movies of Shivaji which
were made by vague directors (some you have
mentioned) they had poor songs; on the other hand
movies such as Mudhal Mariyaadhai had excellent
music. So there is my point: music in Shivaji
movies was mainly dependant on who the director
was! If you want some oldie-examples here are
some: Vilayaattu Pillai; Paadhugaappu; Iru Dhuruvam;
Arunodhayam; Anbai Thedi; En Magan. I don't
think they had any "great" songs.

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S-G scored music for 'nERRu inRu naaLai' also. It had the famous - 'paadum pOthu naan thenRal kaaRRu'. I am not sure whether it had any other good numbers.

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Ravi:

Netru Indru Naalai - MD is MSV.

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hi hello vanakkam from this MGR fan

I am a youngster age22 but I have a great liking for the Oldies goldies especially MGR film songs
I think they are very very popular

I think MGR paid more attention to every aspect of his movie-especially songs.More over it was the effect of the so called -MGR formula -no lies,no nonsense about women,no drinking or bad activities in his role. every role,film and song had something to offer to a common man to stop and ponder about.

Partly this was also a political image created thro such good thoughts,roles and deeds.

whatever it may be the effect it created can never be reached by anything else.the mass appeal is so much

further kannadasan wrote the most number of lyrics and the were the best.the music scoring by most of the music directors were also excellent.

koduthadellam koduthaan avan yaarukaga koduthaan?
alai mel midhaka vittan
buddhan esu gandhi piranthathu
enna dhaan nadakum nadakatume
thaai mel aanai
moondrezhuthil en moochirukum
naan ungal veetu pillai
thaai illamal naan illai
adho andha paravai pola vazha vendum
kanpona pokkile kaal pogalama
etc etc ican fill up the whole website with it

everysong had a life,an inspiration,a theme,an advice,a warning, a subtle advice which any day anytime gives meaning on how one should lead a good life.

I guess and firmly believe all these things made them what they are.

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Tamizh Panpukku Naan Adimai

If not for the great contributions to popular culture by the some of our greatest citizens, such as MGR, Sivarji, MSV, Raja and so many many others, I would not have become nostalgic of late about the profound nature of our great culture, that has a foundation laid perhaps hundreds and hundreds of years ago.

When I look at these performers once again with a more mature, multidimensional outlook I begin to realise why these great artistes are what they are. Truly some of the greatest representatives of our cutlure. Long live these performers.

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One of my greatest Sankar-Ganesh songs and according to me easily one of the finest romantic songs of this century is the MGR song:

UNADHU VIZHIYIL YENADHU PARVAI, ULAGAI KANBADHU, yen idhayam onru.... (Comes from the movie : Naan Yen Pirandhen)


TMS has never poured his heart more elsewhere than in this most beautiful song that Sankar-Ganesh the greatest underrats of Tamil film music have produced.

Hats off to SANKAR-GANESH

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Hey , Hey , Hey
Vanakkam, Vandanam, Namasthe , Namoshka?!

Dear MGR fans, nice chatting to
you about the EVER GREATEST MGR!
I have profound affection and utmost respect
to the legendary actor/director/CM . It is very
interesting to note that I have LIKE MINDED
people here LIKE Nitin Sridevan. I like 'Unadu
Vizhiyil ' the most of all songs I ever liked. In fact
I felt so romatinc when I was age 8 (I swear,
believe me!) when I listened to the song.

Speaking of popularity of MGR songs , I think
and from what I heared from
friends, MGR gave such a great value to his
film songs( I can not say the most because that
may seemingly discredit the importance he gave
to other components of film like story,acting and
other areas) No actor could have ever given
such a great attention to music!

MGR was a true model of image building. No
actor or even politician did ever create an
positive image among people thru screen/media
or other means (this is my personal opinion
and I donot want to get into controversies! please!). MGR has immense potential in
modelling a personality who has self-respect,
confidence, revolutionary views, courage
and dedication to society. I found that in
modern management (professionally and
in personal life) if one follows one of more of this
parameters of an IDEAL HUMAN , he/she
will certainly lead a wonderful life.
MSV and Kannadashan always added values
to his models.

Hey I forgot to add one more characteristic here!
Yes Romantism !

HATS OFF THALAIVAR MGR!

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Guys, you haven't even scratched the surface on MGR movie songs. Sivaji lucked out with getting the cream of Kannadhaasan's imagination when Kannadhaasan and MGR sparred of and on. Also, Sivaji benefitted from classic stories that gave way to great situational songs as in movies by Beemsing, Bandhulu, A.P. Naagarajan, Thiruloganchandhar, Sridhar and other great directors.
Butin MGR movies, he was the driving force behind every song. I'm surprised that even the veterans here have a short memory span. Guys, look back at all the classic songs from MGR's black and white movies. Those songs covered every mood every situation,from tragedy,friendship,fatherhood, family values,humor, patriotism, romance, socialism, you name it.
Pick any of his movies for Devar Films. How about Arasilangumari
Kulaebagaavali
Malaikkallan
Nadodi Mannan
Alibabavum 40 Thirudargalum
Aayirathil Oruvan
Paasam
Magaadevi ...

I can go on but I'll end with a classic, "Kudiyiruntha Kovil". This movie not only proves that the man can squeeze out the best in everybody around him, especially the poets and the MDs, but also cared enough about variety and invention in picturising songs. Let's look at the songs in Kudiyiruntha Kovil one by one, each song is for a different dance routine,from a different culture:
1)Thulluvatho Ilamai--MGR dresses like a Spanish matador and dances like he is ready to fend off a bull,if you remember the music reminds one of bullfights.
2)Aadaludan Paadalai Kaetu--MGR brought Bhangra music and dance to Tamizh movies for the first time with this spectacular number. The scene is invigorating.
3)Un Vizhiyum En Vaalum--MGR is thought to be mad, but the way he acts makes his lady friend wonder if he really is mad. He carries a sword in his hand and carries on like another Elizabethan character who was misunderstood--Prince Hamlet.

I forget the other songs in the movie but I distinctly remember each song coming with a specific set of mood, theme and invention. MGR's influence over song picturization in TFM is indispensable. Give the man his due. He was a visionary.

[Oldposts]

Guys, you haven't even scratched the surface on MGR movie songs. Sivaji lucked out with getting the cream of Kannadhaasan's imagination when Kannadhaasan and MGR sparred of and on. Also, Sivaji benefitted from classic stories that gave way to great situational songs as in movies by Beemsing, Bandhulu, A.P. Naagarajan, Thiruloganchandhar, Sridhar and other great directors.
Butin MGR movies, he was the driving force behind every song. I'm surprised that even the veterans here have a short memory span. Guys, look back at all the classic songs from MGR's black and white movies. Those songs covered every mood every situation,from tragedy,friendship,fatherhood, family values,humor, patriotism, romance, socialism, you name it.
Pick any of his movies for Devar Films. How about Arasilangumari
Kulaebagaavali
Malaikkallan
Nadodi Mannan
Alibabavum 40 Thirudargalum
Aayirathil Oruvan
Paasam
Magaadevi ...

I can go on but I'll end with a classic, "Kudiyiruntha Kovil". This movie not only proves that the man can squeeze out the best in everybody around him, especially the poets and the MDs, but also cared enough about variety and invention in picturising songs. Let's look at the songs in Kudiyiruntha Kovil one by one, each song is for a different dance routine,from a different culture:
1)Thulluvatho Ilamai--MGR dresses like a Spanish matador and dances like he is ready to fend off a bull,if you remember the music reminds one of bullfights.
2)Aadaludan Paadalai Kaetu--MGR brought Bhangra music and dance to Tamizh movies for the first time with this spectacular number. The scene is invigorating.
3)Un Vizhiyum En Vaalum--MGR is thought to be mad, but the way he acts makes his lady friend wonder if he really is mad. He carries a sword in his hand and carries on like another Elizabethan character who was misunderstood--Prince Hamlet.

I forget the other songs in the movie but I distinctly remember each song coming with a specific set of mood, theme and invention. MGR's influence over songs in TF is indispensable. Give the man his due. He was a visionary.

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Udhaya:

The other songs in K.Koyil:

naan yaar naan yaar nee yaar, naalum therindhavar yaar yaar
(a good one by Pulamai Piththan)

kungumap pottin mangalam
(penned by a peN kavinjar: Roshanara Begum)

neeyEdhaan enakku maNavaatti

[Oldposts]

I was really thrilled to read your comments on MGR's films and the songs. Of course I will certainly agree with you! So many new actors have come but still nobody could hold a candle to MGR. He is always thee best. Nothing can change that. I specially like his films because of the superb songs they have.I have been reading so many web sites to view MGR's film songs but I could not find any but casually when I opened this site when I found your comments it was really amazing. Come on guys you will definitely be appreciated.Please introduce MGR's films songs if you could please introduce some video clips where we can watch on the internet.
Thanks a lot for publishing this on this Web site.

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Please read my email address as mohan@hkucc.hku.hk I am sorry in my previous message my email address was typed slightly wrong

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SSK, Udhaya: One more from KKoil: 'ennai theriyumA?'

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Thanks for prompting the other ones, guys,now my example is complete:
4)Ennai Theriyuma--the chorus backing TMS("Aaaga rasigan, Aaaga rasigan, Nalla rasigan, Nalla rasigan") and the percussions in this song are a tribute to the 50s rock'n roll swooners.
5)Naan Yaar Naan Yaar--is a philosophical number that mocks the myth that one can truly know oneself. Also, this is the opposite of the previous song, in the previous song MGR's character explains who he is to the world. In this song he questions who he is and on a larger realm questions who anybody is.
6)Kunguma Pottin Mangalam--sings the praises of our women, our culture. That it was written by a female poet(Roshanara Begum) is a joyful revelation to me(thanks Sathya Keerthi).
7)Neeyethaan Enakku Manavaatti--is a typical MGR love duet. And that's no small compliment about being a typical MGR duet because it takes energy, clarity of words, and fresh composition for MGR to okay the song.
I sincerely hope every true TFM fan will open up to the old and appreciate our rich legacy of music and lyrics. When you have a clue about your past, you know something about the future too. And can we all get into discovering the joy of TFM without bipartisan tug-of-words? I know I get pulled into the fray, but I certainly don't revel in it.

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Udhaya:

That was the only song that Roshanara Begum wrote
for TFM. Islaamiya peNNaana avar kungumap paottin
mangalaththaip patri paadiyadhu evvaLavu
arumaiyaana vishayam, illaiyaa?

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That's an amazing instance where art triumphs over other human barriers. I have been meaning to start a thread about female poets in TFM and right away realized the next to nothing contribution on lyric threads. We have about a 100 threads all dealing with who is better than who, who copied. Such dispiriting stuff. I'm glad we have a few of us who genuinely care about discussing and sharing information.

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Vadiyaar is Vadiyaar.. No competition. I remember watching the old movies during my summer vacation's in madras and I still feel great listening to the oldies

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Hi!

It's my strong feeling that duets composed by MSV and Viswanathan-Ramamurthy are the only ones that can be called 'duets!' and only more so in MGR movies.

I also believe that there's more emotion in TFM duets (I'm only referring to the old songs) both on screen and off screen than even in Hindi movies!

We always had and have better talented singers like P.Sushila, TMS , LREaswari, Janaki, PBS and Vani Jayaram ( not to leave SPB and KJYesudas who are still singing) who could modulate their voices according to the actors/actresses. Such voice matching and modulation was more prevalent in our films than Hindi films.

I do greatly rever Lata Mangeshkar, Rafi, Asha and Mukesh. Their voices were great. But when it comes to prefessional singing in movies where one expects the play-back singers' voices to match those of actors/actresses, our singers far excelled them and always.

I also feel that our singers have always been left out somewhere on the way to complete recognition, don't you feel the same way too?

Thanks, karthi.

[Oldposts]

MGR was really the driving force behiend all his film songs becoming massive hits. they are still very very popular.
MGR the great man gave away all his properties for the poor deaf children
check out http://education.vsnl.com/mgr/

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It's my strong feeling that duets composed by MSV and Viswanathan-Ramamurthy are the only ones that can be called 'duets!' and only more so in MGR movies.

vaanga karthi, aarambippOma MSV - IR- ARR saNdaiyai ?:-)

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Velaiyaththavan, that was in '98 (Nov). Yethukku saar izhukkareenga ?

[Oldposts]

adhuthaan neengaLe sollitteengaLe, naan Velaiyaththavannu :-)

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Can any one tell in which movie the song "nalla nalla pillaigalai nambi indha naade irukkudhu thambi"? And who is wrote this song?

Thanks & Rgds

[Oldposts]

Can any one tell in which movie the song "nalla nalla pillaigalai nambi indha naade irukkudhu thambi"? And who penned this song?

Thanks & Rgds

[Oldposts]

Venkat: You should have asked this question in the Song stats permanent thread. You will get an answer more promptly there. :-).

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Vekat,

I think it's from "Naan Ean Pirandhaen", could be from Vaali.

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'nalla nalla pillaigalai nambi' is in 'petraalthaan pillayaa'. It is by vaali.

[Oldposts]

Incidentally 'nalla nalla pillaigalai nambi'
ends as 'medaiyil muzangu arinyar anna pol' which was changed to 'medaiyil muzangu thiru vee ka pol'

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Ranga:

I thought nalla nalla piLLaigaLai nambi
has two versions. The first (original) version
is by Bharathidhasan (I think). In the movie
this is sung by Saroja Devi/Thanga Velu (PS/SG).
The second version is by Vaali. In the movie it
is sung by MGR (TMS). This second version is
the one that was censored, as you have mentioned.

[Oldposts]

MUSIC DIRECTORS FOR MGR FILMS(From the time MGR emerged as hero)

1.Paithiyakkaran-CR Sbbaraman(CRS)
2.Rajakumari-SM Subbiah Naidu(SMS)
3.Abimanyu-CRSubbaraman/SM Subbiah Naidu
4.Mogini-SMS/CRS
5.Rajamukthi-CN Pandurangan
6. Ratnakumar-G RAmanatahan/CRS
7.Manthirikumari-G Ramanathan(GR)
8.Maruthanaattu Ilavarasi-MS Gnanamani
9. Marmayogi-SMS/CRS
10.Sarvfathikari-S. Dachinamurthi
11. Andamaan Kaithi-Govindarajulu Naidu
12. En Thangai-CN Padnurangan
13. Kumari-KVMahadevan(KVM
14. Genova-MSVisvanathan/MS Gnanamani/TA Kalyanam
15. Naam-CS Jayaraman
16. Panakkaari-SV VEngatraman(SVV)
17. Koondukkil-KVM
18.Malaikkallan-SMS
19.Kulebagavali-Visvanathan Ramamoorthy(VR)
20.Ali Baba & 40 Thirudarkalum-S.Dachinamurthy
21.Madurai Veran-GR
22.Tahikku Pin Thaaram-KVM
23. Chakravarthy Thirumakal-GR
24.Mahadevi-VR
25.Puthumaipithan-GR
26.Rajarajan-KVM
27.Nadodi Mannan-SMS
28.Thaai Magalukku Kattiya Thaali-TR Paappa
29.Bagdad Thirudan-Govindarajulu Naidu
30.Mannathi Mannan-VR
31.Raja Desingh-GR
32.Arasilang Kumari-GR
33.Nallavan Vaazhvaan- TR Paappa
34.Sabash Mappillai-KVM
35.Thaai Sollai Thattathey-KVM
36.Thirudathey-SMS
37.Kudumbatha Thalaivan-KVM
38.Maadappura-KVM
39.Paasam-VR
40.Rani Samyuktha-KVM

To be continued....

[Oldposts]

MDs for MGR films(cont)

41.Thayai Kaatha Thanayan-KVM
42. Vikkiramathithan-S. Rajeswararao
43.Ananda Jothi-VR
44.Darmam Thalai Kaakkum-KVM
45.Kalai Arasi-KVM
46. Kaanji Thalaivan-KVM
47.Koduthu Vaithaval-KVM
48.Neethikku Pin Paasam-KVM
49.Panathottam-VR
50.Parisu-KVM
51.Periya Idathu Pen-VR
52.Deivathaai-VR
53.En Kadmai-VR
54.Padagotti-VR
55.Panakkara Kudumbam-VR
56. Thaayin Madiyil-SMS
57. Thozhilaali-KVM
58. Vettaikkaaran-KVM
59.Aasai Mugam-SMS
60. Aayirathil Oruvan-VR
61.Enda Veetu Pillai-VR
62.Kalangarai Vilakkam-MSV
63.Kannithaai-KVM
64.Panam Padaithavan-VR
65. Thaazhamboo-KVM
66.Anbe Vaa-MSV
67.Naan Aanaiyittaal-MSV
68.Mugarasi-KVM
69. Nadodi-MSV
70.Chandrothayam-MSV
71.Parakkum Paavai-MSV
72.Petraalthaan Pillaiya?-MSV
73. Thaali Bagyam-KVM
74. Thanipiravi-KVM
75. Arasa Kattalai-KVM
76. Kavalkaaran-MSV
77. Thaaikku Thalai Magan-KVM
78.Vivasayee-KVM
79. Ragasiya Police115-MSV
80 Ther Thiruvizha-KVM
81. Kudiyiruntha Koyil-MSV
82.Kannan En Kaadalan-MSV
83. Puthya Boomi-MSV
84. Kanavan-MSV
85. Oli Vilakku-MSV
86. Kathal Vaaganam-KVM
87.Adimai Penn-KVM
88. Nam Naadu-MSV
89.Maattukkara Velan-MSV
90. EN Annan-KVM

To be continued......

[Oldposts]

91. Thalaivan-SMS
92. Thedivantha Mappillai-MSV
93. Engal Thangam-MSV
94. Kumarikottam-MSV
95. Rickshawkkaran-MSV
96. Neerum Neruppum-MSV
97.Oru Thaai Makkal- MSV
98.Sangey Muzhangu-MSV
99.Nalla Neram-KVM
100.Raman Thediya Seethai-MSV
101.Annamitta Kai-KVM
102.Naan Yen Piranthen-Sangkar Ganesh
103.Idaya Veenai-Sangkar Ganesh
104.Ulagam Sutrum Vaaliban-MSV
105.Pattikkaattu Ponnaiya-MSV
106. Netru Indru Naalai-MSV
107.Urimaikkural-MSV
108.Sirithu Vaazha Vendum-MSV
109. Ninaithathai Mudippavan-MSV
110.Naalai Namathey-MSV
111.Pallandu Vaazhga-KVM
112. Idayakkani-MSV
113.Nethikku Thalai Vanagu-MSV
114.Uzhaikkum Karangal-MSV
115.Oorukku Uzhaippavan-MSV
116.Indru Pol Enrum Vaazhga-MSV
117.Navarathinam-Kunnakkudi Vaithiyanathan
118.Meenava Nanban-MSV
119. Maduraiyai Meetta Sundara Paandiyan-MSV

[Oldposts]

Some info about MGR songs
1. Mayakkum Maalai Pozhuthey Nee Po Po was orignially composed by KVM for the film Koondukkili, but later used in Kulebagavali in which VR were MDs. Both are RR films.

2.The song Nerungi Nerungi Pazhagum Pothu was orignially composed by KVM for a film of MGR that never was released. But this song was used in Netru Indru Naalai in which MSV was the MD.

3. In early 1960s two songs from MGR films were banned for some time in All India Radio Madras for "aabasam" They are:
a) SAroja Devi:Hoi... Hoihoihoi...Ithu varai Neenga Paartha Paarvai Ithukkaagathaanaa? Ippadi Endru Solli Irunthaal thaniye varuvenaa..hoi hoihoihoii
MGR: Sollil Vilangatha Ezhuthil Adangatha Sugathai Arinthayo... Thookkam Valaraamal Bakki Theriyamal Ekkam Adaitnhaayo? hoi Hoihoi hoi..(Panakkara Kudumbam)
b) Thottuvida Thottuvida thodarum-kai pattuvida pattuvida malarum (Dharmam Thalai Kakkum)

3. A few songs were recorded but never were released or added into the movies. Examples are:
a) Theertha Karaiyiniley antha senbaga thottathiniley-recorded for Madurai Veeran, but left out
b) Ulagam Sutrum Valibanodu Payanam Vanthaval Naan and Ninaikkum Pothey Thanakkul Sirikkum Maathu-left out in Ulagam Sutrum Vaaliban

4. MGR had a fierce clash with TMS during recording of songs for Adimai Penn. MGR brought a new singer through Adimai Penn to check TMS. That is SP Balasubramaniam (This is has been mentioned several times)

5.Jayalalitha became a singer through MGR's effort in Adimai Penn

6. There was one film song which almost cost MGR his political career. It was highly condemned. The song is from Thanippiravi in which MGR and Jayalalitha appear as Valli and Murugan. The song is "edirpaaramal Nadanthathadi-mugam Kannukkul vizhunthathadi" Jayalalitha used this poster for her campaign and won under the limelight of MGR.

7. S. Rajeswara Rao composed only for one film-Viramathithan and it had good songs. Vannam Paaduthey is till today said to be the song with the fastest musical score.

8. Kunnakkudi vaithiyanathan composed for only one film -Navarathinam-useless and AP Nagarjan had to die. MGR originally wanted to request KK Vaithiyanathan to compose for Ulagam Sutrum Valiban. Then he changed his mind. A wise decision!

9. Many great MDs had composed form MGR movies. Unfortunately great MDs like TG Lingappoa and Sudarsanam had not composed for MGR movies.

10. In a rare situation SC Krishnan had sung playback for MGR in the film Rajarajan. The song is "Aayimalaikkanni aangaraDeviye".
Likewise in the film Kathal Vaganam LR Eswary sings for a scene in which MGR appears as a female dancer. The song is "Enna Man Ponnu Naan Summa Summa Paarkathey"


11. BR Bantulu buzzed off from Sivaji's unit after the film Muradan MUthu and came to MGR to produce Aayirathil Oruvan, MGR gave all the needed cooperation. He wanted every aspect to excell. In one song situation Vali copuld not rise to the expectaion of MGR. MGR forgot his bitter feelings towards Kannadasan and tracked him down and called him to compose the song. With the first pallavi, Kannadasan won MGR's heart, and MGR aksed him to complete the rest of the songs. The song is Odum Megangaley Oru Sol Keliro... Unforunatly Ayirathil Oruvan was the last joint work for MSV and TKR.


12. At a time when Kannadasan and MGR had political differences, MGR did not allow the kaviyarasar to write for his films. But Sridar never released his filsm without the songs of Kannadasan.Sridar was producing Urimaikkural. There was one song which was written and recorded without the knowledge of MGR. When MGR heard the song, he wanted to know if it was the work of Kannadasan. Director Sridar admitted. But MGR asked Sridar to show Kannadasan's name in the title card in the film. The reason MGR gave was not to cover up the ability of any talented person. At times MGR's magnanimity swells by leaps and bounds. The song is Vizhiye Kathai Ezhuthu. This was a turning point for Jesudass.


13. After the death of Kannadasan, MGR gave an interview in which he admited that he used to listen to the song "Acham Enbathu Madamaiyadaa' from Mannathi Mannan whenever he was down in spirit. The song is by Kannadasan.

14. When Naalai Namatehy was in the production stage Kamalahasan was booked to dance with MGR for the song Naan Oru Medai Padagan. Later MGR replaced this qualified dancer for obvious reason.

15. Initially MGR feared to dance with L. Vijayalachumy for the song Aadaludan Paadalai Kettu Rasippathilethaan Sugam Sugam Sugam..in Kudiyiruntha Kovil. But later he agreed on condition no outsider is allowed during the rehearsal and filming of the song scene. The scene was again subjected to his approval. It is still said that MGR did better than the qualified dancer.

16. Several MGR songs were used at one time in the Tamil School books in Malaysian schools-in the 1960s. No more now. Thoongathey Thamnbi Thoongathey in Nadodi Mannan and Chinna Payale Chinna Payaley in Arasilangumari are examples.

Good night/morning!

[Oldposts]

Welcome back Manisegaran !

[Oldposts]

Manisegaran: It is good to have you back.

[Oldposts]

appaa..evLo info !!!! Thx a lot MAni..romba interesting aa paatti kathai maathiri irukku :-)

[Oldposts]

Thanks for lot of info manisegaran:-))) Can you clarify this. That 16 vayathinile 17 pillayammaa was written for enga maamaa but taken by MGR for annamitta kai.

[Oldposts]

MGR FAN

The MD for Enga Mama is MSV. The MD for Annamittakai is KVM. Personally speaking I do not think that is true. But some others may verify this.

MORE INFO ON MGR SONGS

1. Many of the pallavis for MGR songs were given by MGR himslef. MGR suggested Ematrathey Emarathey for ADimai Penn. Vali took this pallavi to KVM who changed it to Yematrathey Yematrathey... Yemarathey Yemarathey.
MSV himself suggested Rajavin Parvai Raniyin PAkkam for Anbe Vaa, and it was accepted by Vali and MGR.

2. MGR tried to dominate the MDs. It worked on some but the ISai methai G Ramanathan did not the least give in. MGR used to send messengers to GR, suggesting tunes for songs. GR used to reply along this line " I do not tell MGR how to handle sword in fgighting scenes, similarly I dont expect him to tell me how to handle tunes. He is authority in his field and Iam authority in my area" That may explain why he used SM Subbiah naidu for Nadodi Mannan. SMS is one of the closest friends of MGR and used to follow MGR wherever he went.

3.In 1956 Mahadevi was being produced. Kannadasasn wrote a song for a park situation. The kathali would wait for a long time and sleep off. The kathalan would come later and rubs her face gently to wake her up. She wakes up to her shock. Then the song goes. "Naanandri Yaar varuvaar. Ilam Nangai Unai veru Yaar thoduvaar" MGR did not like this song. So Kannadasan replaced it with "Kan Moodum Velayilum kalai enne kalaiye". Kannadasan was wild with MGR. Several other pressures forced him to produce his own film. Two years later in 1958 he took Malayitta Mangai in which he created the same situation and made TR Mahalingam and Mynavathi to act out the song mentioned above. TR Mahalingam made a personal request to Visvanathan Ramamoorthy. People used to believe that TRMahalingam could only sing high pitch songs. He asked for the the lowest possible pitch in the song. Thats how the sopng became the lowest pitch song of TRM.

4. Ulagam Sutrum Valiban was shot in a hasty manner. There was not sufficient lighting for several overseas scenes. So MGR erected about 40 settings in Sathya studio to overcome these flaws. He took painful effort to get the best out of MSV. He even rounded up convent school girls to produce the laughung sound for the song "Sirithu Vazha vendum" Of course there are inner stories for every song, which has to go under separate chapther.

5. The late Puthaneri Subramaniam was a bakthan of MGR. MGR wanted to use his song in Nadodi Mannan. The song is "Veesu thendraley Veesu Vetkai Neengave Veesu" When MGR went outstation, the song was rejected by the cine politics. When MGR came back he found that the song was not accepted by his story unit. Out of deep sadness he called up Puthaneri Subramaniam and explained his auckward situation and paid him off Rs 500. The song was later used in Ponni Thirunaal-sung by PB Sreenivos and P Suseela.

6. In 1958 Paathai Theriuthu Paar was being produced, and Vali gave one of his songs for the film. AS the film was a communist based one the song of Vali was most appropriate. But the Music Director MB Sreenivasan rejected it. In 1963 the same song was accepted by MGR and VR for the film Padagoti. The song is "Koduthathellaam Koduthaan"

7. There are at least two songs that were written to directly hit MGR. After Thaikku Pin Tharam, Devar produced Neela Malai Thirudan. As MGR was busy Devar used Ranjan. But MGR wanted Devar to hold on for a while so that he himself would act in the film. Devar went ahead with Ranjan, and MGR gave Devar a lot of problems. Devar got hold of Maruthakazi and asked him to write a song hitting MGR. The song is "Sathiyame Latchiyamaai Kollada". The lines hitting MGR are:

"ethanaiyo medu pallam vazhiyile- unnai idaravittu thallap paarkum kuzhile- nee athanayum thandi kaalai mun vaiyada- nee anjamal kadamayile kan vaiyadaa..

"kullanarik koottam vanthu kurukkidum-nallavarku thollai thanthu madakkidum- nee ellalavum bayam kondu thayangathedaa-
avatrai emanulagam anuppi vaikka thayangathedaa"

MGR had to play politics in cinema for his survival. Later MGR and Devar became best of friends.
The other song is "Kaiyile panam irunthaal kazhuthai kooda arasanadi-kai thatta allairunthaal kakkai kooda rasiganadi" by Kannadsaasn in Karuppu Panam.

8. There are at least 2 songs that backfired on MGR. The thogayara of one song was banned and only the pallavi onwards was played in All India Radios when MGR was the CM. The thogayaraa that was left out was "Aayiram Karangal maraithirunthaalum aathavan Maraivathillai, aanaikalitte yaar thaduthaalum Alaikkadal Oivathillai" This amounted to say that the DMK could never be suppressed (aathavan). The pallavi is "aada Piranthavle aadi vaaa" Film Arasakattalai.

When MGR Was the CM the Tigers issu in Sri Lanka was burning. In the song "Eh Naadodi.. poga venddum Ododi" in Anbe Vaa. there is a sparking line that MGR sings "Puliyai Paaar Nadayile.. Puyalai Par seyalie.. Purium Paar Mudivile.. Mirattinaal Padiyuma? Virattinaaal Mudiyuma?" This is a direct refernce to the invincible power of the tigers. So this song too had to be carefully played in All India Radio.

9. At a time when MGR and Karunanithi were friends, MGR acted free for a MEgala Pictures-Engal Thangam. Vali wrote the first line "Naan Alavodu RAsippavan.... and was thinking of the next line. Karunanithi immediately responded with "Ethaiyum Alavindri Koduppavan" for the second line. Everyone accepted.

10. In Pillaiyo Pillai VAli wrote a song for Mu Ka Muthu. "Moondru Thamizh Thondriyathum Unnidamo- Nee Moovebnthar Vazhi vantha Mannavaro" MGR gave tiffen to Vali one morning and sked him if it was proper to say that Moondru thamzh emerged from Mu Ka Muthu. Vali's explanation was not well acepted by MGR. Pillaiyo Pillai was a clear indication that MGR's fame and growth was being checked.

11. In the film Bagdad Thirudan, MGR sang a song Podanum Kulla Podanum. But in the film Kavalkaran there is a song "Ninaithen Vanthaai Nooru vayathu" in the second half of the song he appears with the kulla. It was after this song that he started to permanently wear the white kulla.

12. In many songs MGR praised himself. By the time Adimai Penn was produced he was at the pinnacle of fame and glory. In the song "Unnai Paarthu intha ulagam sirikkirathu" he appears in mask. As the line goes "Nee kadavulai paarthathu kidayathu... avan karuppa sivappa theriyathu" Immediately he opens up his mask and reveals his face to his supporters. There is a tremendous applaus(They had seen the kadavul) Then he says "Iraivoan oruvan irukkindraan... Ezhayin sirippil irukkindraaan" This time MGR gives a broad smile. More thunderous applause! Anna is the one who said Ezhayil Sirpiil Iraivanai Kaanalaam. Here MGR says that and revealse himself. In DMK circles this became an issue tha was burning behind the scene.

MNORE TO COME

[Oldposts]

13. In thaikku in thaaram there is a song "Manusanai Manusan Sappidaranda Thambi Payale- ithu Maaruvatheppo theeruvatheppo thambi payale" In the record it goes lie this "Manusnai manusan sappidaranda Arumai thambi-ithu maaruvatheppo theeruvatheppo arumai thambi" The first version was recorded in the film. Devar the producer just came back from Anna's talk where he was using the words "Arumai thambi" several times. Devar was so much impressed that he requested Maruthakazi to change the pallavi ending in Arumai Thambi. But he was told that the recording and filming is over. Therfore he suggested that the change be made in the records. So TMS had to sing again. This is an important film for MGR and the DMK politically. In 1957 DMK and Congress stood against each other in the elections. The congress symbol was bull. In the film MGR fights with the bull. That particular poster was used in the elections. Result? DMK sewpt in the particular constituency.

14. MGR had acted in several of MK Thiagaraja Bagavathar's films. When he ws the CM he wanted to change the name of Tiruchy Kalai Arangu into Thiagaraja Bagavathar Kalai Arangu. The date was 2 October 1981. MGR was sceduled to appear at 11.30 in the morning. From 11.00 am onwards no song was played. At 11.30 MGR arrived in his car and alighteed. As he came out of his car this song was played "Vathanamey Chandra Bimbamo" to the thunderous applause and cheersing of the massive crowd there. MGR could not control his smile. He wsmiled and waved at the crowd. The crowd became more hysteric.

15. Petralthaan Pillaiya is the Tamil version of The Kid by CHarlie Chaplin. Half way through the film Saro and MGR had misunderstanding. They were not in talking terms. In the earliers song "Chakkrakkatti Raasathi En Manasa Vachiko kappathi" we could see the usual closeness and the rubbing works of MGR. But after that there was friction between them. MGR wanted to give up further filming. But MGR liked the film so much that he agreed to complete it despite the friction. Communication was through the director. One more song had to be completed. That is "Kannan Piranthaan Engal Kannan Piranthaan" The song scene was shot with some aloofness. MGR and Saro were clearly seen to be keeping distance. The film became a hit.



16. Just to say that MGR had phobia for speed. He was scared to ride fast on horses. Whatever speed we seee in movies is a techique called back projection. Distance shots are by stunts. Name Jeeva Sugam in Genoa and Uzhaippathila Uzhaippai peruvathila inbam are clear examples. He also feared flying in aeroplanes. He prefered trains. It was in Panam Padaithavan that he was forced to board a plane to go to Culcutta to shoot the scene for "Thannuyir Pirivathai Paarthavarillai". Likewise he had never ridden two wheelers in Tamil films. The one appearing in En Kadamai is a stunt. In Deivathai MGR's arrival in scooter alone is shown.

17. The song that took most time to complete is Neenga Nalla Irukkonum Nadu Munnera in Idayakkani. The Thogayaraa itself took three days to picturise on Kaveri. The most difficult song scene is said to be "Oru Pakkam Paarkkura" in Maattukkara Velan. The song that had most number of shots is "Ulagam... Azhagu kalaikalin Surangam" in Ulagam SUtrum Valiban. There were over 200 shots. Anyway the film itsef was shot for 6 hours. The editor was told to reduce it to 3 hours. He fell sick and was almost mad. Despite the editing, two songs were left out.

18. MGR in later days made it a pint to start his films with shooting on the Thaikkulam first, mainly song scenes. But after that every scene should be shot on him. The first MGR film for AVM was Anbe Vaa and the director Thirlokchander did not know this condition of MGR. The shooting of the song Rajavin Paarvai Raniyin Pakkam was going on in parts. One morning MGR was getting ready in the make up room. As usual it took hours. But Saroja Devi came out first and the following line was being shot "Aasayil Vilaintha Mathulam Kaniyo.. Kani Ithal thedum Kathalan Kiliyo" MGR came out with a sour face. His mood was gone for the day! Later Tirlokchander understood the cause. That was also the last film of AVM for MGR!

19. Vali loved a girl, but could not express his love to her. The girl kept on escaping from him. Around this time director Chanakya requested Vali to write a song for Enga Veetu Pillai. The situation happened to be the same faced by Vali in his real life. So he wrote
"Kumari Pennin Ullathile Kudi Irukka Naan Vara Vendum-Kudi Irukka Naan Varuvathedraal Vadagai Enna Thara Vendum?" The song scene was shot in Goa at a time when the Hindi Opposition was going on in Tamilnadu. The absence of MGR was made a political issue. But the truth is that oafter the song was played in the radio, and the film released, the girl felt the impact of the song and finally married Vali.
Vazhiya Vali vazhiyave

VANAKKAM! Padam MUDINTHATHU

[Oldposts]

Manisegaran:

I thoroughly enjoyed your writing. I did not know
that Saroja Devi had some misunderstanding during
petrAnthAn piLLaiyA. Didn't they act in more
movies after that? I have even heard that later
after his ADMK formation he had made a request
to Saroja Devi to join the party. At that time
his relationship with Jeyalalitha was dull, I think.

[Oldposts]

Of course Arasakattalai came after Petralthaan Pillaiya. But Arasakattalai of MG Chakrabani had started off earlier than Petralthan Pillaya. In Arasakattalai you can see the entrance of Jayalalitha and the exit of Saro. In Nadodi Mannan you could see the entrance of Saro and the exit of Banumathi.

MGR in fact requested evryoone in the cine field to join his party. Among the actresses Latha came in first, then Jayalalitha and later Vennira Adai Nirmala. But in the case of Saro she was already retired from cinema and settled in Bangalore by June 1972 ie when ADMK was formed. Saro indicated interest in joining some other political party in Bangalore itself, not in the ADMK as Jayalalitha and Latha were stumbling block. As soon as Jayalalitha became CM she had mentioned in passsing that the throne could have gone to her had she stayed put in Tamilnadu. There was no touch with MGR after her marriage. Seen in this light there is no possiblity of MGR requesting her to join ADMK especially when she had disappeared from he soil of Tamilnadu. But someone else my throw light on your question.

[Oldposts]

Manisekaran:

Nice to see your postings. You are a treasure trove of information!

Etthanaiyo Medu Pallam Vazhiyile being written to hit at MGR looks a bit far fetched. Did any of the people involved, MGR or Thevar or Ranjan or somebody mention it?

There is at least one more song with "Udaya Suriyan" motif. Pudhia Vanam Pudhia Bhoomi has the lines "Udaya Suriyanin Parvaiyile" though I hv heard a modified version too "Pudhia Suriyanin Parvaiyile"

[Oldposts]

Boori
Ethanaiyo MEdu Pallam was related to me personally by Maruthakazi when I saw him in his house in 1988.

[Oldposts]

Manisegaran avargale: You have given lot of interesting information on MGR. Please continue your posting.

[Oldposts]

MORE INFO ON MGR SONGS

1. In Tamil Film music SM Subbiah Naidu cannot be overlooked. The first song of TMS was under the music of SMS. MGR's first playback was by MM Mariappa, a relation of MGR- in the film Rajakumari. It is also said that this is the first playback song in Tamil. The first song of Kannadasan "Kalangathiru Manamey" in Kanniyin Kathali 1948 was given music composition by SMS. The first kolgai song of MGR and the first TMS voice for MGR was also by SMS in Malaikkallan. The song is Ethanai Kaalamthan Ematruvar intha Naattile. MGR overheard TMS singing "Konjum Kiliana Pennai Koondukkiliakkivittu" for the film Koondukili. He heard this in the studio and saw Sri Ramulu of Pachirajan films to use TMS for Malaikkallan. So was this song sung by TMS for MGR.

2. Many had been MDs for MGR movies. The last was Ilayaraja. Surprising? After MGR became CM there was the Parliamentary Elections in 1980 in which he got only two seats. He visibly shivered. Then he wanted to go back to silver screen to boost up his politics. He got Morarji Deasai -the then CM to allow him to act in films. Permission was granted. Vali wrote the songs and got TMS to even record a few songs. Ilayaraja composed music. Vali gave the title to the film- "Unnai Vida Matten". Later MGR changed his mind and abondended the effort. So the film never came out.

3. When Vali was composing songs for MGR, the usual "wolves" carried tales to MGR. This caused a drift between Vali and MGR. So Kannadasan was once again used by MGR. Just before that MGR had announced "From now onwards Vali would be the one writing songs for my films." implying that Kannadasan is out of favour. But after the wolves had done sufficent home work, Vali was kept away by MGR. Vali became downtroddedn economically, and was sufering from financial crisis. Later while songs were being produced for the film Thazhamboo, MGR sent message to Vali to compose "One " song for the film. Vali wrote a song and sent it away to the studio for recording. This is about the only song where Vali directly communicated his heart's feelings to MGR. Then they patched up their differences. The song in which Vali speaks to MGR is:

Engey Povidum Kaalam?-Athu
Ennaiyum Vazha vaikkum-Nee
Idayathai Thiranthu Vaithaal-athu
Unnaiyum Vaazhavaikkum

Ullathai Cholli Nallathai Cheithu
Varuvathai Varattum Enriruppom
Kannerellaaam Punnagaiyaagum
Kadamayin Vazhiye Ninriruppom.

Oru Sila Perkal Oru Sila Natkal
Unmayin Kankalai Thiranthu vaippar
Poruthavarellaam Pongi Ezhiunthey
Moodiya Kankalai Thiranthu Vaippaar

Kalkalirukka Kaikalirukka
Kavalaikal Nammai Enna Seiyum?
Uzhaippathu Onre Seyalenak Kondaal
Nadappathu Nalamaai Nadanthuvidum"

MGR got the message and immediately patched up.

4. In many intimate moments with Vali MGR had pured the burden from his heart. As Vali pointed out how several of the songs written by Vali had materialised, MGR pointed out that there is one song that could never materialise. That is from Panam Padaithavan.

"Enokkoru Magan Pirappaan
Avan Ennai Polave Iruppaan
Thanakkoru Paathaiyai Vagukkamal
En Thalaivan Vazhiyile Nadpaaan."

5. When MGR was the CM he hastily mentioned that the ADMK is implementing the principles embedded in the songs from his films. But upon pressure from the press he could not identify specifically those principles or songs. Immediately CHO Ramaswamy quoted the following song from Oli Vilakku in his Thuklak fortnighly:

Nanga Puthusa Kattikittta Jodithanunga-
Damukkadippan Diyalo Damukaadipan Dayalo...
Eh Singi.. Eh Singaa...

6. After Kannadasan left DMK in 1961 Velore meeting, there was a big vacuum in the DMK. MGR was pestering Vali to join politics, and Vali refused firmly. When Megala Pictures of Karunanithi took Engal Thangam, he was the CM. Vali wrote a song and several dignitaries including Vali were waiting for Kalignar to give an OK for the song. Karunanithi came late and heard the song. He was very satisfied with the rythm and the rhyming in the song. HE saw the poetic ability latent in Vali. He took Vali to a side and told him to present poems in the Trichy Radio Kaviarangam where Kalaignar was presiding. The song that touched Karunanithi most was:

Thanga Pathakkathin Mele -Oru
Muthu Pathithathu Pole-Unthan
Pattu Kannathn Mele- Onru
Thottu Koduthidalama-Neeyum
Vittu Koduthidalaama

Mulaippoo Pallakku Adai Sumanthu
Mellath Thavazhvathu Kandu-
Oru Kodi Ennam Aasai Nenjil
Minni Maraivathu Undu
Azhagu Nadaiyai Pazhagum Chilaiyai
Anaikka Vanthene-Ithazhkal Pozhiyum
Amutha Mazhayil Mithakka Vanthene

Pattadai Thottada Thenral Kulirnthu
Pakkam Nadanthathu Enna
Uyir Kathal Thalaivan Kaval Irukka
Thottu Izhuppathu Enna?
Paniyil Nanayum Malarin Udalil
Kuliradikkatho?
Oruvan Madiyil Mayangum Pozhuthu
Sugam Pirakkatho

Kothodu Muthada Vanjik Kodiyai
Thottu Thodarvathu enna?
Anthi Maalai Pozhuthin Kathal Ninaivai
Kotti Alappathu enna?
Oorum Uravum Ariyum Varayil Kankal Mattodu
Manamaalai Tholil Soodum Naalil
Kaikal Thottaadu.

[Oldposts]

MGR SONG INFO CONTIUES

1. There was a song written by Vali and totally rejected by MGR. MGR was acting a film for his brother Chakrabani "Arasakattalai"

Vali wrote the follwing pallavi:

Aandavan Kattalai Munnaley Arasak
Kattalai Ennavaagum"

MGR immediately rejected as the film Aandavan Kattalai was also in the production stage. The song clearly impiled that Arasakattalai would be nothing compared to Aandavan Kattalai of Sivaji Ganesan.

2. There was a song that Vali wrote for a BR Bantulu film Nadodi. But MSV rejected saying that the song should be used in Raja Rani story and not in films with social themes. Vali liked the song so much that he gave it to KVM for the film Arasa Kattalai. KVM, MGR and everyone else accepted the lyrics in toto. The song, which is one of the best of Vali is:

Putham Puthiya Puthagame-Unnaip
Puratti Paarkum Pulavan Naan
Pothikai Valartha Senthamizhe
Paattil Vadikkum Kavingan Naan.

Palliyarai Ennum Palliyile Indru
Puthithaai Vantha Maanavi Naan
Ettai Puratti Paattaip Padikkum
Veetu Pulavan Nayagi Naan

Anju Viral Pattal Enna
Anjugathai Thottaal Enna
Thotta Sugam Onraa Enna
Thullum Ullam Pantha Enna

Sevvithazhai Kandaal Enna
Theneduthu Undaal Enna

Kothu Malarch Chenda Enna
Konjum Mannan Vanda Enna

Kaiyanaikka Vanthaal Enna
Meiyanaithuk Kondaal Enna

Muthamazhai Enraal Enna
Sorgamn Onru Unda Enna

Vetkam varum Vanthaal Enna
Vendiyathai Thanthaal Enna

Innum Konjam Sonnal Enna
Inbam Inbam Ebnraal Enna.


3. MSV once challenged Vali to produce a masterpiece. Should a song of that calibre be produced MSV was willing to present his gold chain, ring and gold plated Rolex watch to him. He did take them out and place on the harmonium box.
After a moment's thought Vali wrote the follwing song:

Kaatru Vanga Ponen-oru
Kavithai Vangi Vanthen -athai
kettu Vangi Ponaal-Antha
Kanni Enna Aanaal?

MSV was impressed and gave away what he promised, but Vali refused to take them. Later Avvai Nadarajan who was Secretary for Tamil Development in the Secretariat mentioned at a gathering that no one could write songs like Kannadasan. He then wrongly quoted this song to be the work of Kannadasan.


4. We all know that the film Thalaivan was delayed. MGR blamed Vali for having writen a song that had brought about the delay. MGR quoted the follwing song from the film:

Neerazhi Mandapathil-Thendral
Neenthivarum Nalliravil-Thalaivan
Vaaramal Kaathirukka...

The line Thalaivan Vaaramal Kaathirukka was the one that brought about the delay, said MGR. It was very timely that the advertisement board was carried into the studio then. Vali quickly pointed out to a spelling mistake in the advertisement which also conveyed a twisted meaning. Instead of reading "Thomas Pictures" it read Thamasa Pictures." So Vali pointed out that mistake to conveniently clear himself. OF course this was spoken in light vein.


5. MGR goes through every line in the lyrics. Maruthakazi once told me how meticulous MGR is in approving songs. In the film Ninaithathai Mudippavan, there is a song "Kannai Nambathey Unnai Ematrum" In the charanam Maruthakazi had written:

Pon Purulaik Kandavudan Vantha Vazhi Maranthuvittu- Than Vazhiye Pokiravar Pogattume"

MGR immediately pointed out what if the "than Vazhi happens to be a good vazhi" Maruthakazi was shocked at the sharpness of MGR's observation. So Maruthakazi immediately substituted the line as
"Kan Moodi Pogiravar Pogattumey"
The full line then became:

Pon Porulai Kandavudan Vantha Vazhi Maranthuvittu-
Kan Moodi Pogiravar Pogattume"

Vanakkam.

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Oh..Mani..puththam puthiya puththagam is by vaali ? That is indeed a great info.

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Manisegaran,
Thanks for making this thread one which actually imparts information worth reading. A breath of fresh air indeed. Please keep it coming.

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sariyaa sonneenga Udhaya..evLO naaL thaan araichcha mavaiyE araikkirathu :-)

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manisegaran:-)) In kannai nambaathey song the original line written, I heard, was 'maN moodi pogiRavar pogattume'. But MGR did not like the negative words. So he changed it to 'kaN moodi pogiRavar pogattume'

Are you sure MGR never rides two wheelers. Because I have the movie 'Thaikku thalai magan' where there are several scenes of clear front shots of MGR and JJ in Scooters.

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manisegaran avargalae,

ungalukku en vanthanam.

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Ranga
My version is the correct one. Not only MAruthakazi told me, it is also found in the introduction to the collection of Maruthakazi songs where he himself has given an account of the song.

The two wheeler scene in Thaikku Thalai Maagan, Deivathai and En Kadamai etc are all the result of what we call "back projection" in cinema technology.

Thanks.

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Dear Rathathin Rathangaley,
I'm down with flu.I'll continue posting in one or two day's time. Forgive me for the moment.

Anbudan,
Manisegaran

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Malaysia-lum flu-a....inge Bay area-vilum athe thaan.

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guys ,
I heard a news that 1000il oruvan is re-released with digial processing!...and better sound!.....can anyone throw light on this.

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At the risk of digressing!

Srikanth,
Are you talking about DVD or just an audio CD? If it's DVD, I'll set my hounds in search of it. 1000-il oruvan is one of MGR's best movies. The songs were marvelous and would sound great on DVD.

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Udhya,what I heard is it is being rereleased in 7-10 theaters with dolby etc, etc on his birthday this weekend. 1000il Oruvan has great songs!....and very good rerecording.

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1. Vali, like many other beginners in the cine field had a difficult time coming up. He had to ride against the rough cinema tide and merciless politics. After a few years of suffering in Madras he decided to return to Srirangam. There was an offer. Kannadasan sent a message asking Vali to be his assistant for a monthly salary of Rs 300. Vali refused to be under the limelight of anyone else. Some time later he packed up to leave for his native place. As he was leaving he heard a charanam from a song of Kannadasan from the film Sumaithangi, sung by PB Sreenivas. The song is Mayakkama Kalakkama, and the line that touched the heart of Vali was:

"Unakkum Keezhey Ullavar Kodi
Ninaaithu Paarthu Nimmathi Naadu"

Upon hearing this line Vali got inspired and decided not to leave Madras. These two simple lines could change Vali's life.


2. Vali wrote the songs for Padagotti. The name of this film of Velumani was given by Vali himself. When there was the victory celebration of the movie, many were invited, including Kannadasan. Many cine poets spoke. When Kannadasan spoke he quoted these lines from the song "Tharaimel Pirakkavaithan":

"Velli Nilaave Vilakkai Eriyum
Kadalthaan Engal Veedu
Mudinthaal Mudiyum thodarnthaal thodarum
Ithuthaan Engal vaazkai
ithuthaan engal vaazkai"

After that Kannadasan took off his own gold chain and put for Vali. MGR of course appreciated that. In the words of Vali his greatest achjievement in the cine field was to have got the appreciation of Kannadasan.

3. When Enga Veetu Pillai of Nagireddy was in the production stage there was a serious attempt to separate Vali from MGR. The DMK had many DMK poets whom MGR did not use, but MGR was fond of using Vali a brahmin. Moreover, Vali used to move around with thiruneeru in his forehead as he was a pakka devotee of Murugan. The DMK made an issue of this. They asked MGR to get Vali into the DMK party or make sure he never moved around with the viboothi. MGR then went to see Vali. When MGR came, the song "Naan Manthoppil Ninririnthen Avan Mambazam Vendum enraan" was being recorded. MGR waited outside and was really enjoying the song. The song half melted MGR's heart. After the recording MGR took Vali to a corner and told him the matter and the problem the DMK was creating. Vali refused in no uncertain terms to do away with the viboothi. Instead Vali offered to leave MGR. After some thought MGR gave Vali the freedom to appear in public as he wished. Afterall MGR and many other pakka DMK leaders were strong believers in God. This song of Vali still remains raw in his mind not so much for its sweetness, but because of the conversation that took place immediately after the recording of it.

4. MGR's films have some of the very best songs the Tamil music films world has produced. There is no film with MGR as the hero where he never sang. But Manthiri Kumari is certainly an exception. In the film there is a song where MGR plays the harp to the dance of Saguntala(ha ha ha ha.. Vazhviley)
But the best songs were taken off by SA Nadarajan, the villain. Ellis R Duncan, the producer wanted the song "Varaai Nee Varaai" in the film. But the director TR Sundram refused it totally, saying it would not be accepted by the masses. After some argument, Duncan threw a challenge. Ellis R Duncan proposed to screen in Madras alone and see the reaction of the cinema goers. Should there be good response the song would be retained permanently in every other copy. Should there be bad resonse, the particular song scene would be cut off completely from all the copies. The challenge was taken up by TR Sundram. As agreed the song scene was screened in Madras, and the cinema goers gave tremendous support not only to the melody, but also to the hidden meaning in the lyrics and the way Nadarajan acted. Ellic won and TR Sundram was defeated. So the scene was kept permanently in all the copies, and we too enjoy it till today.

5. Its interesting go to the roots of MGR-VAli relationship. Poor Vali had a tough time getting the first inroad into film songs. He got a chance in Azhagar Malai Kalvan where the MD is Gopalan. The first song he wrote was "Nilavum Thaarayum Neeyamma Ulagam Orunaal Umathamma" sung by P. Suseela. After that he had a few chances, but those songs and the films never came out. He had another break in the film Nallavaan Valvaan-story of CN Annadurai. This is the first song of Vali for MGR film.The MD was TR Paappa. The lyrics was approved by Anna with some changes. TR Pappa composed the music. MGR heard the song and said he liked the music. Later he came back and said that the music was not up to the mark. So the music had to be changed ten days later. On the recording day the singer P. Suseela was not feeling well. It was again postponed to one month's time. On that day news came that Seergazhi Govindarajan was not well. The director P. Neelakandan felt that the song had no luck and wanted to use Maruthakazi to write some other song for the situation. Maruthakazi came and read the lyrics of vali and said the song is really good and there was no changes to be made. Finally the song was recorded. In Newton Studio the setting was done. A pond was set for both MGR and Rajasulochana to sing. Many rehearsals were taken. When the final shooting came, the bank of the pond broke and the studio's floor was flooded. Luckily the situation was rectified soon. At the end the shooting was completed, and the scene as well as the song became a hit. So like Kannadasan, Vali too had a tough ride in the initial stages. The dream scene was censored with some cuts. Its worth getting the full lyrics. The song was sung by PS and S Govindarajan.

SG: Sirikkinraal Indru Sirkikkinraal
Sindhiya Kanneer Mariyathaley
Sirikkinraal Indru Sirikkinraal

PS: Anbu thirumugam Kanaamal-Naan
Thunbak Kadalil Neenthi Vanthen

SG: Kaala Puyalil Anaiyaamal Nenjil
kaathal Vilakkai Enthi Vanthen

PS: Udaya Sooriyan Ethiril Irukkayil
Ullath thamarai Malaratho
ullath thamarai malaratho

SG: Ethayum Thaangum Idayamirunthaal
Irunda Pozhuthum Pularatho
irunda pozhuthum pularatho

PS: Then malaraadum Meen Vilayaadum
Aruviyin azhagai Kannero

SG Naan Varavillai Enbathanaal Un
Meenvizhi sinthiya Kanneero

PS: Malar mazhai Pole Meniyin Mele
Kulir Neeralaikal Kenjidutho

Both: Sirikkinrom inru sirikkinrom
Sinthiya Kanneer Mariyathale
Sirikkinrom inru sirikkinrom

So we could see words like Ethayum Thangum Idhayam(Anna) and Udayasooriyan(DMK) proposed by Anna. Some other words were cut by the censor board.

6. There situations where MGR could not dominate, especially before the release of Nadodi Mannan. When Madurai Veeran was in the production stage, the producer of Krishna pictures Lena Chettiar wanted a song reflecting ancient literature. Kannadasan gave such a lyric, and it was, for G.Ramanathan an easy job to give excellent tune. Lena heard the recorded song of "Nadakamellam Kanden Unthan Aadum Vizhiyiley- aadum vizhiyile-geetham paadum mozhilyiley" This beautiful song was sung by TMS and Jikki. Lena was so impressed that he sent for Kannadasan. At the same time he sent for a garland. When Kannadaan arrived, Lena Chettiar garlanded Kannadasan and gave him some cash, saying that the words in the lyrics were excellent. Then came the filming stage. Lena made sure that the scene was very well taken. Many techniques were used to come out with an excellent song scene, where Padmini and MGR gave life to the movie. Every word in the lyrics was well acted out. We have advanced very much in cinema technology, but it is still doubted if such a scene could be shot these days. And Madurai Veeran became the first Tamil movie to be released in 4 theatres in Chennai where the film ran for 100 days in all the 4 theatres. Personally speaking I will always forget myslef whenever I play this song scene.


7. There was an accustion on MSV. In about 1970 MSV was blamed by Sivaji unit that MSV was composing better music for MGR movies, but did not bother much about songs in Sivaji Ganesan's movies. This seemed to be the actual situation. Not that MSV wanted that way, but while MGR squeezed MSV whenever it came to composing of songs, Sivaji Ganesan only concentrated on acting. Close associates of Sivaji fanned up Sivaji, and Sivaji Ganesan confronted MSV. MSV denied the accusation. At that time the film Ponnoonjal was being produced. MSV made sure he did the best for Sivaji, and according to an interview MSV gave in Malaysian TV, in 1973 the records of Ulagam Sutrum Valiban and Ponnoonjal achieved a new record in sale. MSV made sure the song Aagaya Panthalile in Ponnoonjal alone stole the show. That pacified Sivaji's fans for that moment.

8. We know that MGR would squeeze MSV in all the films of MGR for good music. It was easy to bully MSV, but not that easy with KVM. Altogether MSV had composed for 37 movies of MGR while KVM composed for 34 films. MGR had the habbit of approving the tune while in the studio, but upon going home he would phone up and express dissatisfaction and demand for even better music.In Ulagam Sutrum Valiban MSV could not tolerate MGR's insistence for better and better music. Finally he sent off the cassette to MGR. MGR saw the irritation of MSV and paid him off with words of appreciation.

Next was Amalraj Pictures Netru Inru Nalai, where MGR could never get satisfaction whatever MSV composed. Finally MSV did one thing. He hired a taxi and sent the harmonium box to the house of MGR. MGR received the harmonium box and phoned up MSV to ask what this was all about. MSV replied that he had brought out all the best he could from the harmoinum box, and if MGR wanted anything better he was to try himself. Then MGR cooled down and accepted the tunes for the film Netru Inru Naalai. And true enough the songs of the film were good and the film ran quite well. Asohan, the producer died soon of debts. The profit received was not sufficient to cover the debts.

9. KVM was assigned to compose music for the film Thozhilali. There was one song that went very slow. KVM felt that that particular song could only have a slow speed owing to the situation where a manual labourer sits under the street light and sings in the silence of the night. KVM composed the song and felt that MGR may not approve. MGR heard the song and approved it immediately. So far this is about the slowest song of MGR. The song written by Alangudi Somu is:

"Aandavan Ulakathin Muthalaali
Avanukku Naan Oru Tholilaali
Annai Ulakin Madiyin Mele
Anaivarum Enathu Koottali"

10. There are many scenes in Tamil films where mistakes have been made. The mistakes were only discovered too lalte- after the movies had been released. The song scenes are also inculded in this category. In so far as MGR films are concerned mistakes have been minimal.

In the film Thaai Makalukku Kattiya Thali, there is a song "Onralla Irandalla Thamby" MGR and Thangavelu were shown riding a horse cart. While the cart was moving the hat of Thangavelu does not seem to be the least affected by the wind movement. But that is not the main mistake. As the cart moves in one direction the shadow of the branches above their head should be falling on them in the opposition direction. But a mistake has been committed in this song scene. As the two of them move in one direction, the shadow also move along with them.
In Kudiyiruntha Kovil, there is a bull fight scene in the song Thulluvatho Ilamai. (The bull is Rajshree) MGR comes with a cloth with two colours. One side is navy blue colur, and the other side is signal red. The red side should have been waved towards the bull (Rajashree) Instead MGR shows the blue colur. This is just a small error. But both songs mentioned above were so enchanting that these small errors faded away in their sweetness.


Vanakkam.

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simply Wonderful details

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What a thread ?!! Manisegaran... Dhool !! Dhool !!

Of late the forum has decent, interesting threads going on. Atleast for now no word wars and accusations... Good going.

I am enjoying every bit of this thread.

Nandrigal Pala

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Mani, I was told by MSV that Vali was infact on the verge of committing suicide, when he heard the sumaithangi song. MSV then narrated another incident where he had to put his foot down at the risk of offending MGR and made PBS sing a song for him in Mannathi mannan. The song was "Neeyo naano yaar nilave...", a beautiful melody. MGR had wanted TMS to render this song as this was the case with the rest of the songs in the movie picturised on MGR like aadaatha manamum uNdo, achcham yenbathu madamayadaa, kaniya kaniya mazhalai pesum kaNmani etc.
Another piece of information, MGR had actually forced Devar to approach MSV with a request to compose for his movies thereafter. If you would have all noticed, all movies produced by Devar had KVM as the composer. MSV refused stating that it would be tantamount to stabbing KVM Mama on his back. MSV had been helped by KVM in his initial poverty stricken days and hence the wonderful gesture.

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manisegaran,

Fantastic Job!! Hats Off to your knowledge and gripping presentation.

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Sriram,

neengaLum inga thaan sancharichchindu irukkELaa?:-)

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Manisegaran:

All of us are enjoying the info that you are
presenting in a very interesting fashion. Please
continue.

The sirikkindraaL song that Manisegaran
mentioned is here...
http://www.angelfire.com/pa3/ppp/sirikkindraal.ram

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Sri Ram
All of have been using MSV's version, but Vali has written black and white that he was returning to Sri rangam when he heard the song.
I do not have the other info that you have pointed out. Cine field is too vast an ocean. You may be rigtht about the other stories you have pointed out.

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MGR SONGS

1. One of the most evergreen songs from Anbey Vaa is
Naan Paarthathiley
Aval Oruthiyaithaaan
Nalla Azhagi enben
Nalla Azhagi Enben

When Kamalhasan was producing Aboorva Sahodarargal he requested Ilayaraja to compose a song along the lines of Naan Paarthathiley. And Ilayaraja gave this song:

Puthu Mappillaikku
Nalla Yogamada
Antha Manamakalthaan
Vantha Neramada.

2. MGR films have one more "First" to boast of. It was in one MGR film that AM Raja and Jikki gave their first duet. That was also the first film where KVM was the MD for MGR movie. The film is Kumari and the duet song is "Irulile Nilavoli Pol Avar Varuvaar". The film also has one good solo by AM Raja, and it follows one famous Hindi tune.
"Azjiyaatha Kathal Vaazhvin
Anaiyaatha Jothiyaai
Oli Veesuval Ennalum
Ulla Vaaniley"

AM Raja was booked first for Kumari, but Samsaram was released first. AM Raja had sung a lot for MGR films. In the 1950s he became the number one male singer. With the vast expereience and knowledge he also became the MD for Kalyana Parisu. He shot up like a rocket, and came down immediately like a shooting star. After Kalyana Parisu, he composed for Anbukkor Anni, Then Nilavu, Aadi Perukku and Vidivelli. After keeping himself away for some time he came back as MD for Veetu Mapillai and Enakkoru Magan Pirappaan.

While working with Sridar, he gave a lot of problem to Sridar. Sridar had first booked AM Raja for Nenjil Ore Aalayam but replaced him with VR as he could not bear the nonsense of AM Raja.

Having composed for Then Nilavu, AM Raja refused to compose the Background music. The songs were released earlier and they becmae hits. The film could not be rleeased as AMR was holding ransom. Finally MGR came to know and forced AM Raja to complete the BGM. That was the end of AMRaja and Sridar's bond.

AM Raja became his own enemy. He was not only quick tempered but was also a highly suspecting character. So the very first MD to book hm (KVM) got ridd of him first after the film Manamulla Maru Thaaram where AM Raja and Jikki gave this duet:

"Kayiley Inippathenna
Kaniyaanaal Kasappathenna
Vayaadi Vambu Pesum
Maney Bathil sollu"

Then AM. Raja felt that the cine world was boycotting him. So he and Jikki kept away from the Tamil film world. He had income form several tourist cars. So financially he was OK. The loss was for us and him as well.

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Oli Vilakku Of Gemini and Lakshmi Kalyanam of Kanadasan were being produced at the same
time. The MD for both was MSV and he was alternating between both studios to compose music.
When he was in Gemini studio MSV refused to compose music for the song "Thairiyamaga chol nee
manithan thaana" saying that the song was hitting at drunkards and it was a direct reference to
Kannadasan. MSV is and an ardent bakthan of Kannadasan. Vali and MSV were quarelling. MGR
intervened to solve the problem. MSV told the matter to MGR and Vali told that Kannadsan had
equally written a song in Lakshmi Kalyanam hitting at MGR. That song is "Yaarada Manithan ingey
Kootti Vaa Avanai Ingey -Iraivan Padaippil Kuranguthaan meethi ingey". MGR was always fearful
of Kannadasan's songs. So MGR asked MSV to bring the song and play it for him. MSV did what
was told. After listenng MGR said to Vali that there was no refernce to MGR in ths song. Vali
cooled down. Then MGR told the backgrounbd of the Oli Vilakku song to MSV. Oli Vilakku is the
Tamil make of P. Aur Pather. In the Hindi film Dharmendra deliberatley drinks. In the Tamil films
MGR should never be shown drinking. Tamilnadu could never bear it! So MGR modified the story
where he is given chloroform -like spray after which he is forced to drink. As he returns home, his
concience teaches him a lesson by singing out the ill efects of alcohol. MSV cooled own and
composed the music and it did come out very well. The famous song is:

Thairiyamaaga chol nee
manithan thaana? Manithan thaana? Illai!
neethaan oru mirugam
-intha mathuvil vizhum neram
manamum nalla gunamum
un ninaivai vittu vilagum

Maanai pol maanam enraai-nadayil
matha yaanai neeye enraai
vengai pol veeram enraai-Arivil
Uyarvaaga Chollik kondaai
mathuvaal vilanginum keezhaai ninraai

Alaiyaadum kadalai kandaai
kudithu pazhagaamal aadak kandaai
malaraadum kodiyai kandaai
mathuvai parugaamal aadak kandaai
neeyo mathuvaaley aattam kandaai

porul vendithirudach chelvaai
Pennai peravendi vilayiai cholvaai
thunivodu uyirai kolvaai
etharkkum thunaiyaaga mathuvai kolvaal
kettaal nanthaney manithan enbaai.

Kannadasan's life is an open book alright. But
when we read his novel Arangamum Antharangamum we will learn a lot of those "close books"

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The same song of Oli Vilakku has one more interesting story. MGR was trying to complete his 100th film of Oli Vilakku on time.He was involved in too many night shootings. After shooting was over he used to return home. The others would remain to go through the ruch copies. One midnight after the shooting was over, the director, producer, sound engineer, cameramen and lightsmen were all seated in the dark mini theatre to screen the rush copy of the "Thairiyamaga chol nee" song scene. They were all appreciating MGR's acting and were giving suggestions as to how the song scene could have been improved. Suddenly a white figure rose from the back seat and said "OK. Get the settings ready again. I will improvise the acting as suggested" They were shocked to see MGR quietly sitting there. Luckily no adverse comment was passed. So the settings were put up again and the shots taken. MGR imporoved on his performance. The shooting was completed around 4.am. MGR is that much a perfectionis and a hard worker.This is what we are seeing today in Oli Vilakku.

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MGR made Jayalalitha sing in the film Adimai Penn. When MGR told this to Vali, Vali told MGR that he knew this would happen. MGR aked how. Vali told MGR that he already made the prediction earlier in one of MGR's film. MGR asked what was the film and the song. Vali said it was in the film Arasakattalai and the song is:

"Ennai Paada Vaithavan Oruvan
En Paatukku avanthaan Thalaivan
Oru Kutramillaatha manithan
avan kovil Illatha Iraivan" MGR smiled.

In Oli Vilakku again there is one song that will be rembered so long as the name of MGR is alive. In the words of Vali this song literally became the prayers of the followers of the religions that abound in India when MGR was admitted into Apollo Hospital of Madras and later Brooklyn Hospital in the states in 1984. The song scene had Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Sikhs praying for the speedy recovery of MGR. The song that shot Vali, P. Suseela, MSV, and Sowkar Janagi into the height of everlasting fame was:

Iraivaa Un maaligayil
Ethanaiyo Mani vilakku
En thalaivaa un kaaladiyil Enthan
nambikkayin Oli Vilakku
Nambikkayin Oli Vilakku

Aandavaney Un Paathangalai Naan
kanneril Neerattinen-intha
oruyirai nee vazhavaikka-inru
unniduam kaiyenthineen Murugaiyaa..

Pannirandu Kankaliley
Onrirandu Malarnthaalum
En Irandu Kankaliley
Inba Oli Undaagum
Ullamathil Ullavarai
Allith tharum Nallavarai
Vinnulagam vaa Enraal
Mannulagamn ennaagum?

Megangal kan kalangum
Minnal vanthu thudi thudikkum
Vanagamey Urugatho
Vallal Mugam Paaraamal?

Unnudaney Varugindren
En Uyirai tharuginren
Mannan Uyir Pogaamal
Iraivaa Nee Aanai Idu
Iraivaa Nee Aanai idu
Aanai idu iraivaa ...iraivaa.... Iraivaa.


This song was written for the film Oli Vilakku. But it carpetted the entire Tamilnadu when it was played in the radios and cassette players in 1984. Emotion ran high. Throughout the poeriod MGR was hospitalised those involved in the song were remembered in the hearts of Tamilnadu people. Even when the film was released in 1968 the papers did write that the scene did remind the MGR's shooting incident on 12 January 1967- Pongal day.

Anyway belated Happy Pongal to all of you!

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1.One of the songs of Vali had impressed MSV so much that he called Vali one more Kannadasan that MSV had got. The song is in Oru Thaai Makkal. The song is:

Paadinaal Oru Paattu
Paal nilaavinil netru
Odinen athai Kettu
thedinen Valai Pottu
poonguyil Aval Yaro
Ponmayil Aval Pero

2. In one of the talks Kannadasan said "Muthal Iravu pola mosamana Iravu Veru Ethuvum Kodaiyathu. Ethanayum muzhusaka seithu mudikka mudivathillai" He reflected this thought in one of the MGR films- PAASAM. The frustration of the weding night was expresed in the words of a female -using S. Janagi. The song is Jal Jal Jal Ennum Salangai Oli. The line of interest is "Muthal muthal thirudiya kaaranathinaal muzhuthaai thiruda maranthuvitten"

This line was well discussed in literary cirlces, not so much in cine circles.

[Oldposts]

1. Dream songs are permanent features of MGR films. Most of the dreams are by the females for obvious reasons. There are very few song scenes where MGR and the heroines dream. There are even fewer song scenes where MGR dreams alone. In the song "Sarasarani Kalyani" in Raja Desing, he day dreams. In the song "Pavalakkodiyile Muthukkal Poothaal" in Panam Padaithavan he day dreams. In "Sirikkinraal Indru Sirikkinraal" in Nallavan Vazhvaan he dreams in sleep. So MGR has very few dreams. Dreams are by and large by the heroines.

2. If we read Chinthithen Chanthithen of Kannadasan we could get the feelings of Kannadasann for Devika(leave alone the other favourites) So in Ananda Jothy he has written a song expressing his feelings for her. Why Ananda Jothy? Because in that film MGR appears as the pulavan apart from being a drill master. Place Kannadasasn in the place of MGR and listen to this:

DK: Poiyiley Piranthu Poyile valarntha
Pulavar Perumaaney
Unnai Purinthuk Kondaal
Unmai Therithuk kondaal
Intha poovayar kulamaaney

KD: Pooviley Piranthu
pooviley Valarntha
Poovayar kulamaaney
Unnai purinthuk kondaan
unmai therinthuk kondaan
intha pulavar perumaaney

DK: Nejiley vizhuntha ninaivugalaaley
valarnthathu un Uruvam
KD: Inru Neriley vanthu Maarbiley Ennai
Anaippathu Un Uruvam
DK: Vellai Ullamey Kavithai Vellamey
Kaathal Kanni unthan Sontham
KD: Kaathal Kilaiye Kayil Pillaiye
Intha Mullai Enthan Sontham

KD: Satrey Sarintha kuzhaley Asainthu
Thaavuthu En Meley
DK: Athu Thaaney Ezhunthu Meley Vizhunthu Izhuthathu Valai Poley

KD: Netri Potttiley Soodum Pooviley
Kaanum Yaavum Enthan Sontham
DK: Nenjat thattiley Ennai kottinen
Enthan Yaavum Unthan SOntham....

[Oldposts]

Both the thilakams-Nadikar thilakam and Makkal thilagam have some common features.

1. TMS was an ardent supporter of MKT . In the initial days he was singing the songs of MKT alone. People used to call him "kutty MKT". He wanted to be the assistant of MKT. But MKT told him to stand on his own. When the initial songs of TMS were played in the radio, people used to think they were sung by MKT. "Annamitta Veettiley" of Manthiri Kumari was one song misunderstood this way. But TMS had always wanted to sing the songs of MKT in the films. The chances came in Madurai Veeran and Kulamakal Rathai. In Kulamakal Rathai the song "Rathey Unakku Kobam Aangathedi" from Sivagami was sung word for word by TMS. The character in Kulamakal rathai is Ratha(Saroja Devi) So the song suited. KVM was the MD for both Sivagami and Kulamagal Rathai.

In Thruneelakandar there is a song by MKT "Theena karunaa karane Nadaraja Neelakandaney". The tune was used again in Madurai Veeran- Echi Pizhaikkum Thozhiley Sarithaana Ennip paarunga"-by TMS and Jikki. The MD for both are G Ramanathan. In the Madurai Veeran song scene MGR and Padmini provide super Indian folk dance which would put every listener (old timer) to dance. This is one of the best dance performances of MGR. MGR is aware of the contribution of GR for his films. Towards the end GR was hospitalised, mainly because of sorrow caused by poverty. He wanted MGR to do a film for him. MGR agreed, but GR died by then.

2. Likwise there are two films of MGR and Sivaji that never released the records. One is Sridar's Sithoor Rani Bathmini with Sivaji Ganesan and Padmini acting. The super songs were by GR but they never came out in record.

The other is Kalai Arasi with MGR acting, and KVM providing the music. This is the first Tamil film to show outer space. An utter flop, but have good songs.

Seergazhi Govindarajan sang in both films. When he was in my house in Malaysia he wanted me to somehow get these songs for him. They were never available in Tamilnadu. Meanwhile he took along colection of his own songs that I had kept in audio cassettes. He himself never had his collections. But before I could provide him the Kalai Arasi and Sithoor Rani Pathmini songs he was called by the Almighty. What wonderful songs!

[Oldposts]

Dear Brothers,
It is really time consuming to post these. I think I've given sufficent info. This is yet another quicksand. I'll take leave now. Hope others would continue. Thanks for the support. Sorry if I had offended anyone.
Anbudan,
Manisegaran

[Oldposts]

Has anyone heard or seen the movie "PARAKKUM THATTAIGAL" *ring MGR...Can you please post the year of release.
Thanks

[Oldposts]

Manisegaran:

To appreciate the effort you have put in, to provide us with great info is an impossibility as we stand wordless. May be you can narrate a few experiences of your own in the thread about the way you got some of the information. In my inference, you must have enjoyed/be enjoying a good rapport with the stalwarts of TFM , predominantly of the pre IR era. I feel that a brief narration of the same, will just be as interesting as the info you have provided, if you donot have personal glitches or it does not constitute digression. Please consider

A marathon session, as I can understand, of this sort leaves us gasping. ungaL sEvai, DF kku thEvai.

Regards

MS

[Oldposts]

Manisegaran mentioned ANdavan ulagaththin
mudhalALi as the slowest song made for
MGR. But there is a beautiful song by MSV that
is even slower. Can someone say which song I am
talking about?

[Oldposts]

SK, is it "iravu paadagan oruvan vanthaan" from "Neethikku thalai vaNangu"?

[Oldposts]

Sriram:

No; I was referring to "iravu paadagan oruvan vanthaan" from "oorukku uzhaippavan". :-))))

[Oldposts]

No, Srikanth is from Seattle :)))

[Oldposts]

Has anyone seen Idhayakkani?

[Oldposts]

"o" "o" enthan baby vaarai enthan baby
Vaarai nee vaarai nee pogum idam vegu thooram illai

[Oldposts]

Yes I have seen Idhayakkani.

[Oldposts]

MGR was a trend setter in music too. His movie had a variety of situations which prompted his MDs to compose with different sounding. G Ramanathan was a MD who commanded MGR out of interferece with his composing while tuning for his films. He tried all MDs and all voices. TMS though sang the majority, while Seerkali Govindarajan did more than 70 films in playback for MGR. Chakravarthy Thirumagal, Raja rajan, Kalayarasi etc had popular Seergali hits for MGR.

MDs, starting from G Ramanathan to Kunnakudi, Shankar Ganesh, and Ilayaraja too have tuned for his films. But it is a pity that the pooja song composed for MGRs song by Ilayaraja for his proposed last movie in 1977 (? Appave sonnene kettiya?) stopped with a cancelled recording becuase TMS could not sing properly, as per press reports (Remeber - Pesum Padam magazine those days).

[Oldposts]

MGR hits of TMS and Sirkali are already in the market with HMV. One can realise the tasteful trend with which MGR started his film career with beautiful songs and chasteful lyric. It is a pity that film music is not cosidered quality music as in MGR days. I recently saw the song Paal vannam paruvam kandu by PBS sung for MGR. It is really great to see MGR or Sivaji who had play back sung by literally all the singers in the industry from TMS,Sirkali,to VN Sundaram, SC Krishnan etc. Their acting was so perfect that it looked natural.
Manisegaran - In a recent Jaya TV morning interview Sirkalis son Dr.Seerkazhi Siva chidambaram had mentioned about the cassetes which sirkali collected from you in M'sia and also that Chithoor Rani Padmini song was available with HMVs release "Thirayil malarntha sangeetham". He said that he had archived 16000 songs of his father in his golden era, in cassetes,CDs,78Rpm records etc.
Your postings proves genuinity in contrary to most of the controversial postings in tfm page.

[Oldposts]

MGR hits of TMS and Sirkali are already in the market with HMV. One can realise the tasteful trend with which MGR started his film career with beautiful songs and chasteful lyric. It is a pity that film music is not cosidered quality music as in MGR days. I recently saw the song Paal vannam paruvam kandu by PBS sung for MGR. It is really great to see MGR or Sivaji who had play back sung by literally all the singers in the industry from TMS,Sirkali,to VN Sundaram, SC Krishnan etc. Their acting was so perfect that it looked natural.
Manisegaran - In a recent Jaya TV morning interview Sirkalis son Dr.Seerkazhi Siva chidambaram had mentioned about the cassetes which sirkali collected from you in M'sia and also that Chithoor Rani Padmini song was available with HMVs release "Thirayil malarntha sangeetham". He said that he had archived 16000 songs of his father in his golden era, in cassetes,CDs,78Rpm records etc.
Your postings proves genuinity in contrary to most of the controversial postings in tfm page.

[Oldposts]

Chechu,

The film for which Ilayaraja was about to compose for MGR was "Unnai Vida Matten"
You are right that MDR could not dominate G. Ramanathan. But there weree many MDS who were highly poressurised by MGR to come out with their best. No MD escaped this. MGR was a perfectionist and he made it a condition that all tunes and lyrics must be made OK by him before recording the songs. MSV had tremendous pressure for the songs in Ulagam Sutrum Valiban, and the pressure paid off. KVM had tremendous pressurre for Ayiram Nilavey vaa in Adimai Penn(

Mani

Thanks for mentioning about Dr. Seergazhi.
Ive been to see Dr. Seergazhi in Manthai Velipakkam in Santhome area Madras a number of times. Dr. Seergazhi has come to my house in 1985 when we discussed at length on cine songs. He was surpriesed I had so many songs of him in cassette. I gave him the collection of his songs. Im happy Dr. Seerkazhi Siva Chidambaram had mentioned this. Dr. Seergazhi had requested from me songs that had not come out in record. They are from Sithoor Rani Pathmini (Music by G.Ramanathan) and Kalaiarasi (Music by KVM) He also asked me to send the video of the film Agathiyar. Before I could forward these he passed away.

The late Navalar Nedunchezhiyan had requested Dr. Seergazhi to compile albums of songs by Seergazhi tuned by G. Ramanathan, but this too did not materialise.

Ive been meeting many singers, MDs and lyricists in all my 10 trips to Tamilnadu. I've posted the info I acquired whenever the relevant topics surfaced.

Thanks again
Manisegaran

[Oldposts]

G Ramanathan isayil Sirkazhi has been one of the popular releases of HMV. I have the cassette which has a vintage photo of GRamanatha Iyer with Sirkazhi.

[Oldposts]

MGR was a trend setter of melodies with almost all the music directors, extracting the best out of them.
There used to be a talk that he even got the payment dues of musicians from the producers before giving the next callsheet for them. Such was his respect for musicians. He even lit the lamp for IRs new house.
Of course, those were days when music directors where embodiment of humility, with many people working at a time for a good number of movies, with a situation where MDs even putting over the next MGR film to the next man. With MGR in the current scene, you cant imagine of headweighted MDs around. There would have been justice to all aspects of music.

[Oldposts]

Dear Friends,

I used to be a fan of MGR and now too. I am in the early 40s living outside India.

I believe that movies of MGR, as a matter of fact any old movies of the 50s, 60s, 70s had considerable flavour of moral.

Every time I revisit an MGR movie, though some of the scenes are a bit silly in today's context, overall I find the dialogues, songs, themes etc are (still) much more refreshing, especially when we are living in this materialistic and a fast moving world.

After life struggle, people look towards GEETHA, RAMAYANAM or MAHABHARATHAM for wisdom. Nothing wrong with those epics.

But the simplicity with which similar morals are told in MGRs movies/songs are amazing, if one listens to them very carefully.

It is amazing to see that even a very casual dialogue carried some moral or the other, in his movies/songs.

So may people talked both good and bad about MGR.

Somehow, I have been under the impression that his basic qualities originated from his life experiences towards hardship and the poor.

Whatever he has or might have done, he might have done to look after his interest to maintain his image in order to serve the poor.

This is my instinct says.

There is no true or false, unless someone was really close to MGR and experienced all the events that are talked about.

I really appreciate all of your effort to bring back the memories of our lives by discussing about MGRs songs and the success or otherwise.

Please keep up with the great work.

I will also post whatever I know about MGR and his films.

[Oldposts]

MGR never chose the legendary G Ramanatha I yer for his own productions. When he did "Mallai Kallan" for Pakshiraaja Studios (SM Sriramulu Naidu and Narayana Iyengar) it was SM Subbaih Naidu (brother of SM Sriramulu Naidu) who scored the Music. Even for his other hit "Nadodi Mannan " it was SMS again. G Ramanatha Iyer was a asthana composer for all Krishna Pictures movies(producer Lena Chetty) beginning from Krishna Bhakthi to Madurai Veeran. Is'nt that ironic.....

[Oldposts]

Anbulla Nanbargale,


I have forgotton about something in my previous message posted today.


Ungal anaivarukkum, enathu manamaarndha:

PUTHANDU MATRUM PONGAL NALVAALTHUKKAL.


MGRs Pongal release films were always used to be a hit.

I am not sure any of you were aware of this fact, just in case.


Looking forward to more info on MGR, his films and his songs,


Vanakkam

Raman

[Oldposts]

I agree about MGR too, used to ignore his films because he looked invincible in the 70s. now i revisit his hits. there is a profound level of thinking, finesse gone into the movie making. lot of sincerity, dedication, principles and talent. i think this was general across every actor in Tamil films till the 80s. BUt MGR was all about pure passion for anbu and tamizh panpu.

[Oldposts]

u know the MD who refused to score for MGR? It was none other than MSV. For the movie (Neerum Neruppum) MGR poked his nose into MSVs work much in such a way that changing singers too. finally all the songs were not good at all. When MGR approched MSV for the next movie, MSV disagreed first. He agreed only when MGR assured that he'll not disturb his work. From that time, MGR troubled the lyrics writter only.

[Oldposts]

Hi guys,

I'm glad to see so much of u like mgr too. No one understands why i love his songs. They almost always have a good moral to them. I don't understand all of them. But each time i hear his songs i always figure out something new. If u guys know where to find quality mgr songs. Please let me know.

[Oldposts]

Hello Varna,

For Dr.Puratchithalaivar's Songs, please do visit http://www.musicindiaonline.com/tamil/. Many songs are there. Please select the movies by their alphabet name and u can goto particular song.

Natarajan

[Oldposts]

Hi my uncle is a big fan of MJR and i want to find some ringtones of his hit films. Please can somebody help me and give me good adresses. Thank u very much....

[Oldposts]

Hai 2 everyone. My dad is a big fan of puratchikalainyan Mr.MGR himself. I need 2 get some ringtones of his hit films esp NADODI MANNAN. But it's pretty hard. Plz do respond 2 me if u guys find any websites which feature his ringtones. Thankz a 1000000.

[Oldposts]

I am still an ardent MGR fan, despite his last film released almost 25 years ago (Madurai Meetta Sundara Pandiyan in 1978). Todate, songs from his movies are gems and need to be preserved for generations to come.

As Ramanan had mentioned, MGR's songsstem from his personal experiences in life. If you listen to his songs, be it romantic or educational (thathuva padalgal), the lyrics and tunes are great.

I have mainly watched his movies of the late 50's, 60's and 70's (the golden era being the 60's) as his voice was clear prior to being shot by M.R. Radha.

I am not interested in the political aspects of MGR, but see him as a visionary of the time. He predicted in the late 60's that TV will kill the movie industry, if not taken seriouly. You could see the results now, as the current movies do not run even 25 days.

Makkal Thilagam endrendrum Vazhga.

Anbudan
Dilkaran

[Oldposts]

hi, MGR kaigale, if wants to talk about MGR we need to create more n more beutiful words which definitely we can't. I' m in early 30's. I'm a ardent fan of MGR since the day I know there is a box called TV. No matter what people said about him bad or good he is still be my netru, indru and nalai... ini endrum..

[Oldposts]

Kindly send MGR SUPER RING TONES TO MY E.MAIL.ADDRESS I WILL COMPOSE IT. PLEAE DON'T FORGOT.

[Oldposts]

"I am not interested in the political aspects of MGR, but see him as a visionary of the time. He predicted in the late 60's that TV will kill the movie industry, if not taken seriouly. You could see the results now, as the current movies do not run even 25 days."

That's nothing visionary. Movie attendance in Hollywood dropped off in the 50s when TV became popular.

[Oldposts]

hi my name is joy.we miss you so much.
good bye mrs.mgr

[Oldposts]

JOY,
hahahah that was goodone.we all miss him:(
i do not know much about mgr as an actor or politician.but his "Thathuva songs"in all his movies were gr8.i especially like the song "odum megangale"in the movie "ayirathil oruvan".

[Oldposts]

did you read the MGR'S Nan een piranthan? published in weekly "thai" and kumudham, in that article he explained how much problem he faced in his life to obtain this position. mgr's movies, always giving good lesson. in "thozhilali" what he said for transport , in padakotti what he said for fisher men, in vivasayi what he said for farmers, he did all those in real life, during his ruling. in olivilaku, there is a sceen that all people are prayed for him, but his real life also same thing happened on 1985. MGR IS THE MGR. FIGHT MEANS MGR'S FIGHT SONGS INCLUDING ROMANTIC AND THATHUVAM MGR'S BEST. I HAD SEEN 111 MOVIES OUT OF HIS 137 (INCLUDING UNRELEASED)

[Oldposts]

MGR is just an actor. His songs were great and he is the one (my guess) who introduced heroism in tamil cinema. As always, TN people were innocent and he exploited this character. People were crazy for MGR and they even gave their life for him.

[Oldposts]

http://sulekha.com/redirectnh.asp?cid=331750

[Oldposts]

Dear friends

Just to add a message. While taking the picture Nadodi Mannan, he spent all his earnings for that picture. While shooting one of his friend pointed out his heavy expenditure. MGR replied
" Padam odinal nan mannan odavittal nadodi"

Every body knows the result.

[Oldposts]

Has IRaaja composed for MGR films?

[Oldposts]

Nee Ennan Sollum Kavidhai, Nee Engagu Thottalum Ilamai..... what a beautiful, beautiful song.

[Oldposts]

MGR he really enjoy on his songs scenes.
MGR NOWS More ideas 2 full fill on his movies.
MGR brings out his full tallent 4 the audions 2 enjoy the movie.His REALLY GREAT!!!

[Oldposts]

That posting from Raman echoes my thoughts in more or less same words. It is a coincidence reading it as if I had written it. The point is: The days when food was eaten to survive or controlled to focus on spiritual pursuits and procreation was for having children was simpler, today food is plenty, the act of intimacy is now gaining mainstream acceptance as a sport and may soon feature in the Olympics as PorNgy. That was a different time, likes of MGR was fortunately born for the poor folks. If MGR were born today, it is possible he would be a porn star ;---) Food is plenty, your bathroom is a gym and pool, women have proven they have 6 times for physical needs, they are no more exploited except in some caves in some countries, women are exploting now, various religions re exploiting weak peoples for monetary contribution to settle vagrant behavior of priests, so the world is gaining a lot of flesh, no spirit.... we've to wait n see where it is headed.

However, there is hope ;---) U make music as a good pursuit and mentally strong people for friends, culture and traditions will be preserved for the future. The need for everyone appreciating magical phenomenon like film songs, IR, MSV etc.. cannot be undermined anymore.

Good music, creative, light, carnatic and devotional could become the ideal perhaps the chief unprejudiced and open way to spiritual growth and restrained behaviour for all people' of the world. After all, the reality is eventually an illusion considering the weak characters of the earth involved, but the illusion of music can help us journey trouble free in that harmful reality.

There is also bad music, pretentious music, aggressive music and too grand a music, all of which result in delusions of the mind.
________________________________________________
From: Raman (@ ) on: Sat Jan 12 19:07:09 EST 2002


Dear Friends,

I used to be a fan of MGR and now too. I am in the early 40s living outside India.

I believe that movies of MGR, as a matter of fact any old movies of the 50s, 60s, 70s had considerable flavour of moral.

Every time I revisit an MGR movie, though some of the scenes are a bit silly in today's context, overall I find the dialogues, songs, themes etc are (still) much more refreshing, especially when we are living in this materialistic and a fast moving world.

After life struggle, people look towards GEETHA, RAMAYANAM or MAHABHARATHAM for wisdom. Nothing wrong with those epics.

But the simplicity with which similar morals are told in MGRs movies/songs are amazing, if one listens to them very carefully.

It is amazing to see that even a very casual dialogue carried some moral or the other, in his movies/songs.

So may people talked both good and bad about MGR.

Somehow, I have been under the impression that his basic qualities originated from his life experiences towards hardship and the poor.

Whatever he has or might have done, he might have done to look after his interest to maintain his image in order to serve the poor.

This is my instinct says.

There is no true or false, unless someone was really close to MGR and experienced all the events that are talked about.

I really appreciate all of your effort to bring back the memories of our lives by discussing about MGRs songs and the success or otherwise.

Please keep up with the great work.

I will also post whatever I know about MGR and his films.

[Oldposts]

Makkal Thilagam MGR was one the greatest humanitarian and great achiever whatever he has taken a role in his life. His films songs are etenal and gene of motives to reach maximum in everybodies life.You can realize only after listining his songs.

[Oldposts]

Makkal Thilagam MGR was one the greatest humanitarian and great achiever whatever he has taken a role in his life. His films songs are etenal and gene of motives to reach maximum in everybodies life.You can realize only after listining his songs.

[Oldposts]

Last night[in USA] as i was watching the Asia Cup match, I was flip-flopping to Sun TV and had the fortune of viewing some of the old MGR gems under 'Kannadasanin thaththuvap paadalkal'. It was mesmerizing and i even went a few overs go by unwatched for seeing and listening to those songs!
"oruvan manadhu onbadhadaa'
"maaraadhaiyyaa, maaraadhu"
"moonrezhuththil yen moochchirukkum"
and so on.
It is so true that MGR&Sivaji's songs are still and will be 'evergreen' and with that glorious combination of Kannadaasan&vaali[60'&70's vaali] it was a treat.
Thanks.
<a name="last"></a>

[Manisekaran]

The prophetic song
"Moonrezhuthil En moochirukkum" is still being fulfilled.

manisekaran

[Manisekaran]

Moonrezhuthil En moochirukkum- there is a background to this song. Any guess?

[RR]

Sounds like a obvious reference to Anna (or DMK?)..

Recently Vaali has written a song in 'Desam' that goes like 'theenaana moonaana kaanaana', but quickly clarifies it in the next line 'thiruvonam moolam thaan kaarthigai thaan'.

[rajraj]

RR: NSK sang a song 'theenaa moonaa kaanaa' about fifty years back meaning thirukkuraL munnaNi kazhagam'. But, it was about DMK. Here it probably stands for kadamai, kaNNiyam, kattupaadu.

[Manisekaran]

I shall reply the un answered question.

When Vali wrote the song Moonrezhuthil En Moochirukkum, MGR meant DMK. But little did people relaise that it was a double edged sword that contained more than DMK as its its meaning. MGR says Antha Moonezhuthil En Moochirukkum- Athu
Mudintha Pinnalum Pechirukkum
Ullam Enroru Oorirukkum-
Antha Oorukkul Enakkoru Perirukkum-

KADAMAI ATHU KADAMAI

KADAMAI ATHU KADAMAI

He was referring to the three letters of KA DA MAI.

But people knew that it wa DMK. But when he left DMK, then only the real interpretations wer floated. many meanigs came by. What lives on even beyond the passing of MGR? They said, it could be
the three letters of
1. M+G+R
2. A +N+ NA
3. CI+ NE+ MA
4. VI+DI +YO
5. VI+C+D
6. DI+VI+ DI

These are guess work. These technologies were not there when MGR was alive other than Cinema.

But the story I wanted to say is that this song scene was shot after the movie was completed- to increase the footage, and to add in a usual punch song which was lacking in this MGR formula movie. That was the first Sathay Movies production. That was also the first adnlast movie where KBalachander wrote the dialogue. RM Veerappan interfered too much on behalf of MGR to add in dialogue in over praise of MGR. BUt KB never bent at all. MGR maked him off from his future productions. KB and MGR flew high in their own ways.

Manisekaran

[RR]

Thanks, Mani. VCD,DVD was sophisticated guesswork.. Did they miss 'EM.PI.3' :)

Is there any story behind NSK's song?

[Manisekaran]

NSK wanted to prommote DMK in Panam, but the censorhsip Board would not allow. So he mentioned Theena Moona Kaanaa and gave explanation to the abreviation as Thiruvalluvar Munnetra Munnani. names of Anna and Periyaar are carefully brought in too. I have given a detailed explanation of thsi song earlier in some other thread.

[saradhaa_sn]

Ranga
My version is the correct one. Not only MAruthakazi told me, it is also found in the introduction to the collection of Maruthakazi songs where he himself has given an account of the song.

The two wheeler scene in Thaikku Thalai Maagan, Deivathai and En Kadamai etc are all the result of what we call "back projection" in cinema technology.

Thanks.






Correct. Not only in those songs, also in "En Annan" the song 'Nenjam undu nermai undu odu Raja' also full of back projection. In the long shot, the 'Jatka' (horse cart) was driven by some dupe.

[saradhaa_sn]

In many of MGR films, songs are not that much hit.

Some of them are:

1) Thaali Bakkiyam
2) Aasai Mugam
3) Ther Thiruvizhaa
4) Kaadhal Vaaganam
5) Thaazhamboo
6) Kanniththaai
7) Neerum Neruppum
8) Indru pol endrum Vaazhga
9) Navaraththinam....etc..

[saradhaa_sn]

10) Uzhaikkum Karangal
12) Pattikkaattu Ponnaiyaa

also....

[S.Balaji]

In many of MGR films, songs are not that much hit.

Some of them are:

1) Thaali Bakkiyam
2) Aasai Mugam
3) Ther Thiruvizhaa
4) Kaadhal Vaaganam
5) Thaazhamboo
6) Kanniththaai
7) Neerum Neruppum
8) Indru pol endrum Vaazhga
9) Navaraththinam....etc..

Dear Shadhaji,


Indu pol endrum vaazga - En yoga jaadagam / Welcome hero / Edhu naataikaakum kai . Are they not popular ones ??

Uzaikum karangal - Naalai ulagai aalavendum / Kandhanukku malai ittal / - I think they were floating around during those days

[S.Balaji]

Ranga
My version is the correct one. Not only MAruthakazi told me, it is also found in the introduction to the collection of Maruthakazi songs where he himself has given an account of the song.

The two wheeler scene in Thaikku Thalai Maagan, Deivathai and En Kadamai etc are all the result of what we call "back projection" in cinema technology.

Thanks.






Correct. Not only in those songs, also in "En Annan" the song 'Nenjam undu nermai undu odu Raja' also full of back projection. In the long shot, the 'Jatka' (horse cart) was driven by some dupe.

Hello,

I think even - Acham enbadhu madamaiyadaa - Also was a back projection only !!
Paarappa palaniappa - ALso I think

I guess MGR played safe during those days !!!

But MGR's taste for music , nobody can question that

[S.Balaji]

Can anybody tell me this song of MGR :

Naan alavodu rasippavan , edhaiyum alavinri koduppavan.

Lovely song - TMS and PS only.

Not sure which movie ??

Can I have the thread also for this song pls.

Its from MSV only.

[saradhaa_sn]

Can anybody tell me this song of MGR :

Naan alavodu rasippavan , edhaiyum alavinri koduppavan.

Lovely song - TMS and PS only.

Not sure which movie ??

Can I have the thread also for this song pls.

Its from MSV only.

"Naan alavodu rasippavan".... this song in the movie Kalainger's "Engal Thangam" by MSV.

All songs in that movie written by Valee.

Only that 'Chandra Manadalam kadhaa kaalatchebam' written by Murasoli Maaran.

[S.Balaji]

[quote=S.Balaji]
"Naan alavodu rasippavan".... this song in the movie Kalainger's "Engal Thangam" by MSV.

All songs in that movie written by Valee.

Only that 'Chandra Manadalam kadhaa kaalatchebam' written by Murasoli Maaran.

Thanks. I guessed it could be Valee only. Nobody can write like Valee -

I love the phrase - Edayum alavinree koduppavan - It precisely fits into MGR's scheme of expectations.


There are such similar words - MGR pugaz paadum :

1. Mayangi vitten unnai kandu .................

Vallal karangal intha chinna idayil ... Solla solla enna sugamoooo

2. Neenga nalaa erukanum naadu munera

3. Erunthidalaam naatil pala vanna kodi ........... parakka vendum engum oray chinna kodiii .........

4. Naalai ulagai aala vendum uzaikum karangalay

5. Angay siripavargal sirikkattum ........ Nalla theerpai ulagam sollum naal varumbodhu

6. Naan aanayitaaal adhu nadanthu vitaaal engu ezaigal vedanai padamaatar

etc etc.

[S.Balaji]

[tscii:87a84e780c]MGR’s THANGA PADHAKATHIN MELAY… ORU MUTHU PADHITHU POLAY.. ENDHA PATTU KANNANGALIN MELAY… ONRU THOTTU KODUTHIDALAAMO NEEYUM VITTU KODUTHIDALAAMO…

This song will captivate you for the sheer rhythm …. And the speed with which TMS and PS sang ……. It’s a variety for you…….

It will look like as if JJ herself sang that song…

While TMS will dominate the first two phases of the song.. PS will enter the third phase…

Ofcourse TMS… no need to mention…. Sang exactly like MGR…….
[/tscii:87a84e780c]

[joe]

wow!manisegaran...What a great thread this is..I really enjoyed your information. on Makkal Thilagam MGR.Keep it up.

[mr_karthik]

wow!manisegaran...What a great thread this is..I really enjoyed your information. on Makkal Thilagam MGR.Keep it up.
Joe,

That means, now only you are watching this thread. is it?.
Really it is informative. For every song, Manisekaran is having the story how it was born.

[joe]

mr_karthik,
You are right..I have seen this thread today only..I couldn't stop reading..completed reading full thread non stop..very interesting.

Though I am die-hard fan of Nadigar Thilagam ,I am also a fan of MGR songs.

[umaramesh]

I think after GR only MSV to protest with MGR if he put too much pressure. I heard that MSV simply refused for NALLAI NAMADHE film because he never use to repeat same tune scored from other language. He agreed after getting assurance from MGR that he will not interfere in song composing and he will not use SAME TUNE frm hindi tune. MGR gave this assurance.

In his book MSV mention about ULLAGAM SUTRUM VALLIBAN incident and how MGR removed his name without informing him. Later MGR spoke to MSV mother and made him to agree.
regards
uma rames

[mr_karthik]

I think after GR only MSV to protest with MGR if he put too much pressure. I heard that MSV simply refused for NALLAI NAMADHE film because he never use to repeat same tune scored from other language. He agreed after getting assurance from MGR that he will not interfere in song composing and he will not use SAME TUNE frm hindi tune. MGR gave this assurance.

In his book MSV mention about ULLAGAM SUTRUM VALLIBAN incident and how MGR removed his name without informing him. Later MGR spoke to MSV mother and made him to agree.
regards
uma rames
Welcome Uma Ramesh,

Your postings shows that your future posts will be more informative like Mr.Manisekaran, Mr. Balaji, Mrs. Saradha and others, especially in this forum (Memories of yesteryears).
If you read all posts in this forum, you will be amazing about the stunning informations from those hubbers about the pasts.

We are ready to enjoy and share.
Karthik.

[umaramesh]

Dear karthik
Thanks for your mail. I think I am not seasoned campaigner like Mr.Manaisekaran/Miss. Sharada & others. I will share with everyone whatever small information I have. Thanks a lot.

regards
uma ramesh

[Manisekaran]

Balaji,

Valee wrote this first line:

Naan Alavodu Rasippavan... and did not know how to move on to the next line. Mu.Karunanithi whose Megala Pictures took this movie was around and he immediately shot in with this line:

"Ethayum Alavinri Koduppavan" very approriately describing the character of the man called MGR. Valee was puzzled at Mu Ka's right choice of words.

MGR did not take payment for this movie as the proceeds from the movie was meant for DMK funds. The movie ran fairly well. When the victory celebrations took place, MGR was never to be found, as he had gone abroad for shooting of Ulakam Sutrum Valiban.

By this time bitterness was already developing between the two.

[lovedeva_pj]

joe always suport her fan sivajiganeshan
but mgr songs are more popular than sivaji thats no one can rejected

Many thathuva padalkal is only famous for mgr
and many love songs also popular for mgr

I also like sivaji acting , sivaji is the greatest actor no one can beat sivaji in acting that is true at the same time no one can beat MGR in popularity

[Manisekaran]

MGR was certainly "prophetic" in his own ways. He knew that his acting parameters were limited. He retained same style of acting from day one. Yet he felt that his ultimate strength would be songs. As has been stated several times, MGR looked into every angle and aspect of songs in his films.

1) MGR decided the song writers

2) Sat with them and went through the lyrics word for word and line for line. ( The late Marudhakazi and Valee related to me this)

3) He sat with MDs and approved the tunes. RM Veerappan said that all the tunes in MGR songs were approved by MGR. MGR event went to the extent of buying western vinyl records for the listening of the MDs- Kunnakkudi Vaithiyanathan has said this when songs for Navarathinam were composed

4) MGR decides the singers as well.


5) MGR decided the screenplay for the song scenes (Puthaneri Subramaniam related this with me at a breakfast talk in his house. He wrote a song "Veesu Thendrale Veesu" for Nadodi Mannan, for which MGR imagined the song scene. However the song was left out and later used in Ponni Thirunaal. But MGR does contribute to the picturisation)

The man's intense and deep involvement rewarded we fans very well in that his songs were instant hits, and his song scenes were powerful and left indelible impressions upon us.

Singers who sang for him and lyricists who wrote for him received many chances from other MDs as well.

Many of his songs bagged several coveted awards.

His song scenes were too costly and yet enriching. The song scene with the biggest expenditure in those days was Azhagiya Thamizh Magal Ival- Rickshawkaran- two lakhs then. (One of the fours immortal songs where MSV used too many instruments)

His dream songs were simmply matchless!

See the song scene of "Nadagamellaam Kanden Unthan Aadum Vizhiyile" in Madurai Veeran- the staring point of major dream songs. How about "Kannnil Vanthu Minnal Pol" in Nadodi Mannan - underwater scene, that drew the attraction of the press.


All his efforts paid off. ADMK stood for elections in December 1984, in the absence of MGR. MGR was admitted in Brooklyn Hospital USA for multiple ailments. Tamilnadu felt desperate. The video clipping of MGR conversing with his doctor was screened in all theatres. But more importantly, MGR's famous songs were played over AIR over and over for two weeks. His songs carpetted the entire country and permeated the hearts and souls of his ardent fans.



And MGR won with the biggest mandate.
Cho ramasamy wrote" THis is the biggest mandate MGR has received. With this mandate MGR could do two things:
a) Use his tremeondous influence to do something good for the country; or
b) decide to be arrogant.


When MGR was in the Brooklyn Hospital one particular song became a prayer for MGR- again a prayer by all major religious groups. The song is "Aandavane Un Pathangalai Naan Kanneeril Neerattinen" - Oli Vilakku. By Vaalee.
When MGR recovered and returned to Tamilnadu V. N Janagi, MGR's consort told Valee that it was Valee Bagyam that saved MGR. Valee said it was actually VN Janagi's Taali Bagyam that rescued him!



When you listen to MGR songs, there is a special power. And that undeniable and irrepressible power is this: When you listen to his songs, the MDs who composed for his songs would be lost out. The singers will be lost out. Automatically the image of MGR and MGR alone would appear before our faces.

An example: Naan Aanayittaal Athu Nadanthuvittaaal....

What do you see?

[ramky]

Manisekaran : Very enlightening writeup about MGR. As you pointed out, whenever I listen to "Naan aaNaiyittaal athu nadanthuvittaal" (audio), only the visuals of MGR comes before my eyes - excellent song & one of my favorites !

[Manisekaran]

Dear Ramky,
You have got it. Almost all songs of MGR have this impact! He was the most charismatic cine personality in India.

I am right now in Bangkok. This morning I took time off to visit some of the places where MGR shot scenes for Ulagam Sutrum Valiban-Pachai Kili Muthu Charam Mullai Kodi Yaro?

Thanks

Manisekaran

[tvsankar]

Anbulla Sagodharar Manisekarn Avargalae,
About MGR - Unga writings ellam interest agavum, information agavum irukiradhu.Bangkok thagavalgalaiyum sollungo Sir.

With Love,
Usha Sankar.

[tvsankar]

Dear ramky and Mani Sir,
"Pachai kili muthu charam " padal patri oru chinna vishayam.

ramky -- AGPG thread il indha padal patri oru thagaval sonnergal.

Indha padalil naditha actress thailand.Avaruku thamiz theriyadhu enrum MGR invarin lip movemnets ku care eduthu seri seidhu irupar enrum sonnergal.

indha thagavalai naan Jaya tv thenkinnam programme ku vnadha Dance Master Puliyur Saroja avargal solli keten.

Puliyur Saroja avarin stylei avar sonna thagaval--

Pachai kili padaluku indha ponnai dance ku solli koduthen.Anal padaluku seriya lip movements varavillai.Indha ponnuku thamiz theriyadhu....

nnidam MGR sonnar."Indha ponnuku thamiz theiryavillai.Eppadiyavadhu tamizh katru koduthu seriyaga lip movements panna seiyungal" enru.

Naan indha padal varigalai ivaruku katru koduthen.Avarum sincere aga katru kondu maximum try panni seriyana lip movements panna muyarchi seidhu paadinar.

UNMAIYILAYAE INDHA PONNU PACHAI KILI DHAN. PACHAI KILI MADHIRI TAMIZH KATRU KONDU PAADINAR.INDHA PADLAI IPPO PARUNGA -- PACHAI KILI MADHRI TAMIZH AI PADUM AZHAGAI !!!!!

I like the comments of PUliyur Saroja for that Girl....

Song's picturisation is also nice to watch.THank you ramky...

With Love,
Usha Sankar.

[Nakeeran]

Dear Mr. Manisegaran

We are learning a lot from you. Of late I am using your posts as the basis for many of my posts !
With so much info. database you have and the excellent way of presenting skills, we expect more from you sir.

Your coverage on Ulagam sutrum valiban was superb.

On the same lines, will you pls cover some landmark movies of Makkal thilagam , say like , Anbe vaa , 1000il oruvan, Nadodi, Kudiyirundha kovil, Adiman penn, Nadodi mannan etc.

We all know what knowledge MGR had on music but we need more indepth info. through experts like you pls.

Pls. come out with more posts on MGR songs .

[Manisekaran]

Dear Nakkeeran,
Thank you for your confidence in me. I have said it before and am saying it again and again. I am not an expert nor fully knowledgeable on Tamil films or music. My information is based on books and interviews from the cine field. If you read widely you will observe that many of these books contradict with one another. As for the cine personalities, I have met far too many of them. Sadly owing to old age and ailments, many of them are not able to confirm many matters.

There are a lot of gaps in the cine regime. So it is people like you who should check up whatever is posted.


Recently there was one person who somehow got hold of my personal email address and sent a nasty message asking me to stop posting, quoting many mistakes that I seem to have made. (I gave my email to only one person and it is now being very intelligently circulated)

The email made me happy as the person has finally and clearly rejected me as an expert. That is exactly the way I had wanted to be treated.

So, to say it again, please do not accept everything I say as an expert opinion- Please. I am not from Tamilnadu, I rely on books and interviews with cine personalities. I also make my own mistakes.

Thank you.
With regards.
Manisekaran

[Manisekaran]

Dear Sahodari Usha Shankar,
Ulagam Sutrum Valiban was a movie that was shot very hastily. Many scenes were shot in the absence of proper lighting. The sun was not cooperating.
'
The lady Metta was also a fast make case. MGR did his very best to teach her the lyrics. You see carefully, her lip movements do not syncronise with the lyrics. But there was no time for remake or reshooting. MGR had to return to India fast. In Sathya Studio he set up 40 settings to re shoot. But not everything could be re shot.

Immediately after singing the first line (PONNIN NIRAM...) she tumbles down in the reverse, but that shot was not remade.

As for the Bangkok Grand Palace that I happened to see in person, words fail in describing the beauty of what I saw. But that grand palace contains the Buddhist temple in the Sri Lankan architecture, a temple in the Cambodian architecture, a building for keeping the relics of Budddha and another building for keeping the scriptures. There is also a grand banquet hall. There is also a temple that houses Emarald Buddha, the most important and most holy spot in Thailand. Being a holy and restricted spot, no duet scene would be allowed. Documentary perhaps yes. MGR in his intelligent mind has captured some areas with documentary formula and imposed a bacground dance scene with Metta.

Again he had done the shooting in the absence of lighting. You could see dark clouds in this scene.

If only the sun had shone, it would have been another banquet for we movie goers.