Beat the isolation blues with these assorted numbers from Kollywood

Irrespective of what mood we are in — be it joy, grief, anguish, love, loneliness or sheer boredom — Tamil cinema has blessed us with a vast array of songs that lighten us up.

With the lockdown confining us to four walls and a roof, how about some songs that will lift our spirits? After all, art cannot be confined. Here is The Federal‘s choice of Tamil songs that will beat your isolation blues.

Vetri Nichayam

This yesteryear classic from Annamalai (1992) is a must-have in every Rajinikanth fan’s playlist. Composed by Deva and in the majestic voice SP Balasubrahmanyam, this song features Annamalai (Rajini) swimming against the tide with confidence and the support of friends and family. It is an embodiment of will power and tells us how tough grind is a must to reach the fruits of that labour.

Desaandhiri

We started off with a fast track, so how about a melody? This track from the recently released Gypsy (2020), shows the trials and tribulations of a gypsy who travels the length and breadth of this vast sub-continent. Composed by Santhosh Narayanan and sung by Siddharth and the musician himself, the song is also a visual treat for anyone who adds the term ‘wanderlust’ to their social media description.

Yaar Yaar Sivam

Life sometimes dampen our spirits when we are in the fast lane. This brilliantly-written song from Anbe Sivam (2003), though macroscopically shows Nallasivam (Kamal Hassan) recuperating from a near-fatal accident, it tells us how one’s life can turned upside down in a moment. Sung by Karthik and Kamal himself, this soothing number is an apotheosis of the lead character’s story arc.

Iravum Varum Pagalum Varum

Come what may, some things remain constant. This track, sung by the legendary TM Soundararajan for Iravum Pagalum (1965) interprets that philosophy with words that will hits you hard. It construes all aspects one’s journey of life — ups and downs, gain and loss, affluent and destitute, day and night — but tells us the only life we have is to live the fullest.

Vellai Pookkal

How can we end the list without one from our Mozart of Madras? This soothing track from Kannathil Muthamittal (2002), composed by AR Rahman, talks about a world that’s filled with love and peace — and the white flowers that remain white forever. The song’s lyrics are sure to make you wish that everyone listens to it and does its part to take us to such a world.