Echoes of the Maestro – Song 29 – Thaalaattu

Achchani was released in 1978 and directed by Karaikudi Narayanan and the story is based on Narayanan’s Stage play of the same name. A couple of songs are very famous in this album and I’m pretty sure you must have come across this song too. However, this is the first time I’ve listened to it.

Echoes of the Maestro – Song 22 – Thenil Aadum Roja

Thenil Aadum Roja is an absolute delight, capturing the essence of a mother serenading her child. P. Susheela Amma’s graceful rendition brings out the beauty of Panchu Arunachalam’s poetic lyrics. I’m not sure if it was widely popular at the time, but listening to this song with closed eyes invokes a profound sense of peace and tranquility.

Echoes of the Maestro – Song 4 – Kettele Ange

Illayaraja is known for some of his hit folk music songs but this one hits on a different level. Unfortunately, I never have listened to this song and also got to know that this song was banned from being aired on All India Radio for its supposedly vulgar lyrics.

Echoes of the Maestro – Song 2 – Vaadiyamma Ponmagale

“Vaadiyamma Ponmagale” is a fun song and it appears to be the first collaboration between SPB and Illayaraja. Although there is another popular song from the same album featuring this combo, I believe this one was recorded first (correct me if I’m wrong). This song also seems to be the first collaboration between SPB and P. Susheela. It has a mix of Western and Indian Classical music, and don’t miss the usual SPB banter in the song.