Chennai: Renowned Tamil poet and National Award-winning lyricist Vairamuthu has raised concerns over the unauthorised use of his poetic lines as film titles in the Tamil film industry. In a strongly worded post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, the veteran lyricist expressed disappointment at filmmakers repeatedly using his work without seeking his permission or acknowledgment.
“Many of my verses have been used by the Tamil film industry as film titles. None of those who have taken them have asked my permission or even offered a word of respect,” Vairamuthu wrote in Tamil.
என்னுடைய
— வைரமுத்து (@Vairamuthu) June 9, 2025
பல்லவிகள் பலவற்றைத்
தமிழ்த் திரையுலகம்
படத் தலைப்புகளாகப்
பயன்படுத்தி இருக்கிறது
அப்படி எடுத்தாண்டவர்கள் யாரும்
என்னிடம் அனுமதி பெறவில்லை என்பதோடு
மரியாதைக்குக்கூட
ஒரு வார்த்தையும் கேட்டதில்லை
ஒன்றா இரண்டா…
பொன்மாலைப் பொழுது,
கண் சிவந்தால் மண் சிவக்கும்,
இளைய நிலா,…
The lyricist highlighted several films whose titles were directly derived from his lyrics, including:
- Ponmaalai Pozhudhu
- Ilaya Nila
- Oorai Therinjikitten
- Poove Poochooda Vaa
- Mouna Ragam
A Call for Creative Courtesy
Despite acknowledging that he never openly objected to the use of his lines in these films, Vairamuthu questioned the ethical stance of the filmmakers.
“In a society where wealth is not shared in common, I take joy in the fact that knowledge at least becomes common property. It would be uncivilised of me to ask, ‘Why didn’t you ask me before doing this?’ But isn’t it equally uncivilised of them not to have even asked me a single word?” he wrote.
Filmmaker Responds
In response, actor Adhav Kannadasan, who starred in the 2013 film Ponmaalai Pozhudhu, responded respectfully on X. He clarified that Vairamuthu had indeed given permission for the use of that particular title.
“Sir, with all due respect, we got your permission for #PonmaalaiPozhudhu as you mentioned it’s a special feeling as #KaviyarasuKannadasan’s grandson is using your lyrics as the film title. You felt proud. The lyrics in the film were written by dearest @madhankarky sir. Thank you,” Adhav posted.
The post has stirred discussion in Tamil literary and film circles, with many calling for greater respect for intellectual and creative contributions, especially when such work holds cultural significance.