Why Meiyazhagan's Songs Are Special And Will Stand the Test of Time

 

Meiyazhagan is a film directed by C Premkumar, which hit theaters on September 27, 2024. The music, composed by Govind Vasantha of  "Thaikkudam Bridge" fame, deserves a lot more attention than it is currently getting. The album, though not an instant hit, has the potential to resonate deeply with listeners over time, and here is why I believe it will.

To begin with, there are six songs in the film, all released on a single day. In an era where films tease us with song releases one by one to build hype, This film did something traditional and refreshing. They released the entire album in a day, a bold move that takes us back to older times when music was not used merely for promotion but for storytelling. Even more interestingly, the makers brought back the old-school charm of releasing a songbook, reviving the nostalgic feeling of leafing through pages filled with lyrics, offering a sweet touch.

Now, let us talk about the songs themselves. Each of the six tracks has its own soul and depth. Unlike the trend-driven music we often hear today, these songs are rich with meaning. The lyrics resonate with emotions and tie directly into the film’s narrative. From the first song, "Poren Naan Poren", to "Yaaro Ivan Yaaro", each track becomes a part of the plot and enriches the experience.

"Poren Naan Poren" tells the tale of a young man who is forced to leave his birthplace. The song beautifully captures the emotional conflict of someone deeply attached to their home, now compelled to part from it. It reflects the sentiment of many who have had to migrate from their hometowns, connecting with those who understand the heartache of leaving behind something precious.

Then comes "Delta Kalyanam", a song that celebrates the charm of a village style wedding. It is filled with delightful details about the culture, the food and the simple joys of such a celebration. Listening to it feels like being a part of a wedding in the next village. The familiarity it brings make it a feel-good song, highly relatable to anyone who has witnessed a traditional Tamil wedding.

"Oor Manney" is a more reflective track. It delves into the protagonist’s confusion and regret as he revisits his village. He is unsure why he returned and the memories of the past overwhelm him. The song captures the emotional turmoil of confronting a place that once hurt you and the struggle to find peace with it. 

"Arul Mei" raises a crucial question in the story: Who is Karthi, the mysterious figure who enters Arvind Swamy’s life? The song explores the protagonist’s uncertainty, echoing a familiar situation many of us face when a stranger or long-lost relative suddenly becomes a part of our lives. The song plays with that feeling of not knowing who someone truly is.

Then there is "Yaaro Ivan Yaaro". In this track, the protagonist is overwhelmed by the selfless love of Karthi. He does not know how to react to this pure, unconditional affection. The song beautifully portrays the discomfort we sometimes feel when we encounter selflessness that we are not used to or do not know how to reciprocate.

Finally, we have "Veri", which is not a full-fledged song but more of a theme. It speaks about the pride of Jallikattu and the Tamil identity, a cultural song that adds richness to the narrative.

The beauty of Meiyazhagan’s music is how it enhances the story and makes the film a more immersive experience. It is relatable, emotional, and speaks to universal themes of love, regret, and identity. While it may not have gotten the instant attention it deserves, I believe these songs will find their place and be appreciated over time. They are not just songs for the moment, they are songs for a lifetime, ones that will continue to resonate as we reflect on their meaning.

Meiyazhagan Review

Meiyazhagan is a refreshing and visually captivating feel-good film directed by C. Premkumar, best known for his previous work in "96". Retaining some familiar faces and talents from that film, including the brilliant musician Govind Vasantha, Meiyazhagan carries an unmistakable charm. The movie stands out for its exceptional cinematography and rich production quality, which belies its relatively low budget. 

One of the film’s strengths is its use of real locations, which adds a sense of depth and authenticity to the story. The decision to shoot live, especially in scenes like the Jallikattu sequence, offers an awe-inspiring, immersive experience rather than relying on CGI. For a movie operating within such financial constraints, the production values feel impressive and polished.

Humor plays a significant role, with both lead actors Karthi and Aravind Swamy displaying an unexpectedly hilarious chemistry. Their banter and comedy timing lighten the movie, although the comedy occasionally swings between being subtle and overdone. Despite the unevenness, the film elicits laughter throughout, making it an enjoyable experience for audiences.

Govind Vasantha’s music blends well into the narrative, with none of the six songs feeling out of place. While the soundtrack may not catch on immediately in today’s fast-paced culture, the lyrics and melodies have a slow-burning quality. The songs enrich the film's emotional landscape, especially when paired with the stunning visuals, creating moments of pure cinematic beauty.

The nostalgic elements in this film are another highlight, with the film peppered with retro touches that evoke a sense of warmth. The inclusion of old Ilayaraja tracks adds to this atmosphere, taking audiences back to simpler times. Beyond nostalgia, the film delicately explores family dynamics, touching on the subtle issues that can arise within a family. These themes are handled in a neat, heartfelt way, adding emotional depth without being too heavy-handed. The blend of nostalgia and family-focused storytelling makes the film feel personal and relatable, further elevating its appeal.

However, the film is not without its flaws. While the first half flows smoothly, the second half drags, with certain scenes feeling unnecessary or forced. These elements derail the pacing and detracts the movie from the core. Fortunately, the narrative regains its footing by the climax, delivering an emotionally satisfying conclusion.

A major plot device revolves around the question, "Who is Karthi?" This mystery engages both Aravind Swamy’s character and the audience, keeping us hooked despite the occasional narrative lag. Yet, it is hard to shake the feeling that the director lost sight of the story at times, using filler scenes to pad out the runtime.

Overall, Meiyazhagan is a decent film with plenty to enjoy, from its performances to its gorgeous visuals and music. While it may stumble in parts, it is worth a watch.

Rating: 7/10⭐️

Suzuki Burgman 125: A Long-Term Review after 25,000 kms

 

After two years and 25,000 km of riding, I have gathered an understanding of the Suzuki Burgman 125. This review will break down the pros and cons of this maxi scooter, followed by my final thoughts on its overall performance and who it's best suited for.

Pros:

1. Reliable Brand & Service: 

Suzuki is a trusted name, and owning this scooter is backed by responsive customer service. Any issues, such as the pass light integration or starter motor problems, were addressed without much hassle, often covered under warranty.

2. Sweet and Powerful Engine:

The engine is well-suited for a maxi-scooter. While it does not have the punch of its competitors like the TVS NTorq, but it still manages to clock speeds up to 109 km/h and can comfortably cruise at 80 km/h. There is a subtle grunt to the engine, which adds character without being too loud or disturbing.

3. Good Fit and Finish:

The overall build of the Burgman 125 is commendable. Even after extensive use, it has not developed the annoying squeaky or rattling sounds that many scooters tend to have over time. It feels solid and intact.

4. Comfortable Seat and Riding Position: 

The wide, long seat provides enough space for two, and even three passengers (though not recommended). It is designed for comfort, making long rides pleasant for both rider and pillion. The riding position is upright and relaxed, ideal for extended use without fatigue.

5. Balanced Suspension Setup:

The suspension leans more towards the stiff side, offering stability at higher speeds but compromising a bit when hitting potholes. Still, it is well-balanced for daily commutes and occasional highway rides.

6. Decent Braking with CBS:

Although the Burgman does not come with a disc brake or ABS, the CBS (Combined Braking System) works well enough at lower to medium speeds, keeping the scooter in control during city commutes.

7. Fuel Efficiency: 

Fuel efficiency is one of its strong points. With careful riding, you can expect anywhere between 55 - 58km/l, making it economical, especially with rising fuel costs.

8. Ground clearance:

Despite having a Centre stand, ground clearance has never been an issue with the Burgman 125. It handles speed bumps and uneven roads without scraping the bottom, even when fully loaded. Overloading might be an exception, but for normal use, the ground clearance is more than sufficient.

9. Visual Appeal:

The Suzuki Burgman stands out on the road. It looks big, bulky, and commanding, especially in the white color variant. For those who like scooters with presence, this one delivers.

Cons:

1. High Beam Pass Light Issue:

The pass light, integrated with the high-beam switch, is a known issue in the Burgman. It used to fail, and while Suzuki replaced it under warranty, it was eventually removed altogether, and now its just a high-beam switch, which is a letdown.

2. Self-Start Problems:

Despite having a one-touch start, the starter motor and self-start switch are not up to expectations. I had to replace both the starter motor and switch once, along with the battery, but occasional starting issues still persist.

3. Silencer Issues:

The silencer guard falling off is another common problem. The guard’s hinge tends to melt, causing it to come off. And this does not cover under warrenty, The guard costs around 400rs, But it happened only once in the span of 2years. Additionally, the silencer pipe frequently faces rusting issues, requiring repeated repainting. This is not covered by warranty and costs around 600rs each time.

4. Poor Turning Radius:

For a maxi scooter can not complain much but the turning radius of the Burgman is less than the other regular scooters in market. In traffic or tight spaces, it becomes cumbersome to maneuver, which can be a major downside for city riders.

5. Undersized Tyres:

The stock tyres are undersized for a scooter of this size, and while there are not many upsize options available in the market, I recommend ditching the MRF stock tyres in favor of Michelin for better grip and performance.

6. Quality of Parts & Instrument Cluster: 

Given its price (₹1,15,000+), the quality of the scooter’s parts and the basic instrument cluster could have been better. While Suzuki addressed this with an upgraded infotainment system in the latest Rally edition, it still feels lacking for earlier models like mine.

7. Vulnerable to Scratches and Chipping: 

The scooter is prone to scratches and chipping, especially since it does not come with a complete crash guard. While third-party accessories are available, they are not of high quality and add unnecessary weight to the scooter.

8. Underseat storage and Charger:

While the underseat storage is spacious enough for a half-face helmet, it cannot accommodate a full-face helmet, which can be inconvenient for riders who prefer more protection. Additionally, the scooter does not come with a USB port as standard, it is offered as an accessory, costing around ₹600. It would have been better if this feature was included at this price point.

(And regarding the light and horn. Both the light and the horn are decent for a scooter. They are not bad, but they do not stand out either.)

Final Word: Who is this Scooter For?

The Suzuki Burgman 125 is a versatile scooter, best suited for youngsters and middle-aged riders who need a reliable and comfortable city commuter with the ability to handle weekend rides. It is not the fastest in its segment, but it offers a great mix of comfort, style, and practicality. 

Overall, the Burgman 125 makes for a well-rounded maxi-scooter, ideal for those who want something bigger than the average scooter but with the ease of daily commuting.

The Cartoon Corner of My Childhood

 

There is something special about the way cartoons shape our childhood. They are not just shows, they were entire worlds of imagination, where logic does not matter, and fun is the only thing that counts. Growing up in the 2000s, I was lucky enough to experience the joy of cartoons in a way that feels almost impossible to replicate today. 

In those days, we did not have a TV at home because my mom prioritized my studies, so the only chance to indulge in cartoons was at my grandparent's house, where a local operator provided regional channels. The highlight was "Chutti TV", a Tamil-language cartoon channel that aired shows like Jackie Chan Adventures, Jee boom bai and He-Man. Every weekend or after school, I would visit, eagerly watching with a plate of Horlicks, relishing the warmth of those afternoons and the comfort of routine. My other grandma's house, visited during festivals, was a treasure trove of channels like "Cartoon Network", "Pogo" and "Nickelodeon." Those rare visits felt like stepping into a new universe, where I could escape into shows like Phineas and Ferb, Ben 10 and Tom and Jerry, making each trip an unforgettable adventure beyond the everyday.

Eventually, a TV made its way into our home, and everything changed. No longer did I have to wait for weekends or festivals to get my cartoon fix. Shows like Beyblade, Pokemon, Power Rangers, Shinchan and Dragon ball z became part of my everyday life. I would rush home from school, knowing exactly when each show aired, planning my evenings around them. Even in the mornings, there was always a small gap between eating breakfast and leaving for school, just enough time to sneak in a few minutes of a cartoon. My mom’s scoldings for wasting time became a familiar background noise, but nothing could take me away from those precious TV moments.

Amidst this excitement, the slow, peaceful evenings and rainy mornings hold a special place in my memory. When the rain poured down, and we could not go out to play with friends, seated up in front of the TV felt like a little slice of heaven. Watching cartoons during those cozy afternoons, with a cup of tea and snacks lovingly prepared by my mom, was the best part of those gloomy days. I would lose myself on screen, blissfully unaware of what was happening around me. It was a slow way of living, where time seemed to stretch, allowing each moment to linger a little longer, filled with the laughter and adventure of my favorite characters.

Looking back, it is hard to explain just how much cartoons meant to us. Sure, they defied logic, characters flying through the air, animals talking, and gravity playing by its own rules, but that did not matter. What mattered was the joy they brought us, the excitement we felt watching those impossible worlds come to life. Cartoons gave us the freedom to believe in the impossible, and that was everything we needed as kids.

Today, those cartoon-filled days seem like a distant dream, but they remain a precious part of my childhood. They were more than just entertainment, they were a part of my early years, a time when life felt simpler, and happiness was found in the most unexpected places. Though cartoons may no longer play a role in my life, they left a lasting impact, shaping my imagination and filling my childhood with unforgettable memories.

Do you have a cartoon that still brings back those childhood memories every time you think about it?

Saddle Stories: From Chennai to Kanyakumari

It was not my first ride but this one felt different, perhaps because I was riding alone or maybe because it was a journey back to my hometown. I set out on August 30, 2023 on the Srinagar-Kanyakumari highway, a long stretch that took me through places like Tindivanam, Trichy, Madurai, Kovilpatti and Tirunelveli. The ride began at 9:30am in the morning and ended by 8:30pm at night, clocking in over 720+ kilometers. I usually take the bus for this route but something about this day made me choose the saddle. Why not?, I thought.

I had initially planned to start around 4am, but rain in Chennai had delayed me. By the time I finally set off at 9.30am, the day had already started to heat up. As always, I started with "Pallimuttai", a small, sweet treat that never fails to remind me of childhood. Made of sugar and cumin, it has a certain freshness that stays with me throughout the ride. It has become a tradition now, something that grounds me before a long stretch.

The Classic 350, which I took out this time instead of my usual Interceptor, performed like a dream on this ride. I cruised at a stable 80 km/h, clocking in over 35 km per liter, far better than the 24-26 km I get on the Interceptor. The seats were incredibly comfortable, more bucket-like than the hard seating I am used to on the Interceptor. It made a huge difference on a long journey like this. One fuel stop in the middle and the Classic just kept going.

But despite the comfort, this ride was anything but easy. A scorching sun and empty highways made it a punishing experience. The straight roads were unrelenting, the wind blast unforgiving. Highway rides can drain you, especially when they are so featureless. Just road after road. No curves, no surprises, nothing to break the monotony. I should have known better than to expect anything else.

Still, I had my music. My intercom blasted classic tunes and for a while I found some escape in the melodies. The songs lifted my spirit, even if only briefly, making the emptiness of the highway seem a little less dull. Singing along was my way of coping, a small rebellion against the relentless sun, the dry wind and the stretch that refused to end.

There was one moment when nature decided to play along. As I was crossing Kovilpatti, the sun was setting. I saw it in the distance, the colors blending into the road ahead. For a second, the sun looked like it was resting right in my headlight, its light merging with the glow of the bike. That was one of the few beautiful moments I captured along the way. It’s these brief encounters with nature that make the ride worth it, even if the rest of the journey was bland.

By the time I arrived, the tiredness was gone, replaced by excitement. The road had taken its toll but reaching the end was worth it. This ride was not about the scenery or the destination, it was about endurance. A quick ride back home, 720+ kilometers covered, just me and the road. Not the most scenic ride but a story nonetheless.