Song: Why this Kolaveri Di?

Credit: Thanks to my roommate Vinay Somashekar who introduced and explained the significance of this song!

It’s been 2 weeks since this song was released on November 16, 2011 and there have been a staggering 11 Million Views on Youtube. It’s been the top trending topic worldwide on Twitter for 3 straight days.

In Tamil, Kolaveri Di translates to “Murderous Rage.” In context of the song it refers to the anguish that arises from unrequited love. Kolaveri Di is a treasure hidden in the midst of the uninspired and mundane “songs” that litter our radio stations. Instead of talking about “poppin’ bottles” and reckless binge drinking at clubs, Kolaveri poetically paints the sentiment of rejection and romantic failure.

“Kiss my ass and my anus, I’m finally famous”  - Nicki Minaj 

(Above) Not so poetic, Ms. Minaj. I’m sure your High School Literature Teacher is endlessly proud that you finally grasp the concept of slant rhyme.

From the opening rhythms of the Indian drum to the final trills of a jazzy trumpet, this song represents both a milestone in Southeast-Asian music, and a pinnacle in the marriage of musical elements.

Though Jay Sean’s “Down” and “Ride It” may have found international success (especially in the UK), its lyrics and focus were entirely foreign. In these best-selling hits, Sikh-born Jay Sean departs from traditional Indian musical elements and instead relies on the appeal of mainstream instrumentation.

In contrast, Kolaveri Di retains its traditional cultural roots through its in-language lyrics. Yes, there are fragments of English sparsed throughout the work, but they’re sung and pronounced in a proudly accented inflection. 

Whether or not Kolaveri surpasses Rebecca Black’s Friday or not, it’s a song that is testament to the fact that good music knows no languages. 

Enjoy.