Hits Of Vayalar 60 Malayalam Old Songs Original... ✦ Plus & Easy

The Golden Quill: Reflections on ‘Hits of Vayalar’

In the rich tapestry of Malayalam cinema and music, few names shine as brightly or bleed as poignantly as Vayalar Ramavarma. To listen to a compilation titled Hits of Vayalar: 60 Malayalam Old Songs Original is not merely to enjoy a playlist; it is to embark on a nostalgic pilgrimage through the very soul of Kerala during the latter half of the 20th century. These sixty tracks represent more than melody; they are a historical archive of human emotion, social change, and poetic mastery.

Vayalar was often referred to as the "poet of the people," and his collaboration with musical geniuses like G. Devarajan and M.S. Baburaj created a golden era that remains unmatched. The word "Original" in the album title is significant. It serves as a distinction from the countless remixes and digitally altered versions that permeate modern media. It promises the listener the raw, unadulterated texture of the past—the crackle of vintage microphones, the lush arrangements of live orchestras, and the pristine voices of legends like Yesudas, P. Leela, and S. Janaki.

What makes these sixty songs particularly interesting is the sheer range of human experience they encapsulate. Vayalar possessed a rare alchemy; he could turn the mundane into the philosophical and the simple into the sublime. On one hand, you have the intoxicating revolutionary spirit of songs like "Ezhu Swarangalum" or the raw energy of "Thamarayum Sooryanum," which fueled the social awakening of a generation. These were not just film songs; they were anthems of a society fighting against inequality and seeking a new identity.

On the other hand, the collection offers an unparalleled depth of romance and melancholy. Vayalar’s imagery was revolutionary. Before his arrival, Malayalam film lyrics were often simplistic. Vayalar introduced metaphors of fire, blood, and celestial beauty into the mainstream. A song like "Chandrakalabham Charthi Urangum" from Bharya demonstrates his ability to weave Sanskritized poetry into accessible tunes. He could describe the heartbreak of separation with such visceral pain in songs like "Oru Kochu swapnam kunju," that decades later, the listener still feels a phantom ache.

Listening to this collection is also a study in the interplay between language and music. Vayalar’s lyrics were not written to fit a tune; often, the tunes were crafted to elevate his poetry. The synergy between his words and the composition is seamless. When Yesudas sings a Vayalar poem, the words cease to be ink on paper; they become living, breathing entities. The songs often carry a conversational tone, yet are laden with profound philosophical undertones—a duality that kept the common man humming complex metaphors without realizing the depth of what they were singing.

Furthermore, this collection serves as a time capsule of Kerala’s cultural landscape. From the black-and-white era of the 1950s to the colorful transition of the 1970s, these songs document the changing ethos of the land. They remind us of a time when lyrics were prioritized over beats, when the "pallavi" and "charanam" (verse and chorus) structures allowed for storytelling rather than just rhythmic hooks.

In an age of fleeting viral trends, the enduring popularity of Hits of Vayalar stands as a testament to timeless art. It reminds us that while technology advances, the fundamental human need for poetry remains constant. These sixty songs are not just hits; they are heirlooms passed down through generations, carrying the scent of monsoons, the pain of lost love, and the fire of revolution. To listen to them is to understand why Vayalar Ramavarma remains not just a lyricist, but a legend etched into the heartbeat of Kerala.

Vayalar Ramavarma, often revered as the "Vayalar," is the poetic soul of Malayalam cinema. His collaboration with composer G. Devarajan defined a "Golden Era" of music that continues to resonate across generations.

For fans seeking a definitive collection, the Hits of Vayalar: 60 Malayalam Old Songs represents a nostalgic journey through the most prolific period of Kerala’s film history (1950s–1970s). The Legacy of Vayalar Ramavarma

Vayalar penned over 1,300 songs for more than 250 films. His lyrics were more than mere movie accompaniments; they were high-caliber poetry that addressed social issues, romantic longing, and spiritual inquiry. Iconic Tracks in the "Hits of Vayalar" Collection

While a single "60-song" list can vary by curator, these essential original tracks are nearly always included due to their cultural impact: Song Title Music Director Key Singer(s) Manushyan Mathangale Achanum Bappayum G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas Aayiram Padasarangal Nadhi G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas Chakravarthini Chembarathi G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas Kadalinakkare Ponore Chemmeen Salil Chowdhury K.J. Yesudas Chandrakalabham Kottaram Vilkkanundu G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas / P. Madhuri Sanyasini Rajahamsam G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas Nadhikalil Sundari Anarkali M.S. Baburaj K.J. Yesudas / B. Vasantha Kayamboo Kannil Nadhi G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas Thumbi Thumbi Vava Koodappirappu K. Raghavan Santha P. Nair Sumangali Nee Vivahitha G. Devarajan K.J. Yesudas Key Collaborators & Milestones

The Vayalar-Devarajan Duo: This legendary partnership yielded over 130 films. Their work balanced complex literary themes with melodies that common people could hum.

National Recognition: Vayalar won the National Film Award for Best Lyrics in 1972 for "Manushyan Mathangale Srishtichu," a song that remains a powerful anthem for secularism in India.

Udaya Studios & Kunchacko: Many of Vayalar's earliest hits were associated with Udaya Studios, helping shape the "old-world charm" of Malayalam black-and-white classics. Where to Listen to Original Tracks

To ensure you are hearing the high-fidelity original recordings rather than modern "revivals," look for curated playlists on official platforms: Vayalar Ramavarma - Top Songs - Listen on JioSaavn


Artists

What Makes the 60 Songs "Original"?

In an era of digital karaoke and re-sung classics, authenticity is rare. This collection is prized because it preserves:

Final Take: A Legacy in 60 Tracks

The "Hits of Vayalar – 60 Malayalam Old Songs Original" is not merely a playlist; it is a syllabus on the golden age of Malayalam cinema. Every song reaffirms why Vayalar remains the undisputed monarch of Malayalam lyrics. Whether you seek the spiritual high of "Hari Murare" or the romantic ache of "Poonthenaruvi," this collection delivers the original, unfiltered magic.

Verdict: Essential listening for any lover of Indian film music. Keep a tissue box nearby—Vayalar’s melancholic masterpieces can stir tears even after the 100th listen.


Do you have a specific song from this collection you’d like to know more about? Or would you like the full track list of the 60 songs?


60 original songs (artist — film — composer) — curated highlights and short notes

  1. “Aayiram Nilave Vaa” — K. J. Yesudas — Pareeksha (1967) — G. Devarajan

    • Lyrical moon imagery; plaintive melody.
  2. “Manushyan Mathangale” — K. J. Yesudas — Thacholi Othenan (1970) — G. Devarajan

    • Social conscience set to stirring music.
  3. “Kanneer Poovinte” — P. Leela — Bhargavi Nilayam (1964) — M. S. Baburaj

    • Melancholic romance with poetic metaphor.
  4. “Ponnazhikkuttu” — P. Leela / V. Dakshinamoorthy film track — (early classic) — V. Dakshinamurthy

    • Lyrical celebration of everyday life.
  5. “Thaaramudhu” — S. Janaki — Udhyogastha (1967) — G. Devarajan

    • Tender female-voiced ballad.
  6. “Maaninte Mangalyam” — K. J. Yesudas — Chemmeen (1965) — Salil Chowdhury (note: Vayalar contributed lyrics to other Chemmeen songs) Hits of Vayalar 60 Malayalam old Songs Original...

    • Evokes coastal life and longing.
  7. “Anuraga Ganam Pole” — P. Susheela — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Lush romantic lines and classical touches.
  8. “Ezhuthiyatharanu Sujatha” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Narrative lyric with character detail.
  9. “Chemanthi Poove” — P. Leela — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Fragrant nature metaphors, haunting melody.
  10. “Kulirum Veenjum” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Evocative seasonal imagery.
  11. “Pavizha Mazha” — P. Jayachandran — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Rain motif; gentle orchestration.
  12. “Kaalam Marunnoru” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • On time and change; reflective tone.
  13. “Naadodi Mannan” — Male chorus — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Folksy feel; community voice.
  14. “Swapnathin Theerathu” — S. Janaki — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Dreamlike lyricism.
  15. “Madhuramee” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Pure love song—simple, effective.
  16. “Varnangal” — P. Leela — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Color and metaphor in romantic description.
  17. “Kayyil Oru” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Intimate, intimate storytelling.
  18. “Pular Veyilum” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Morning imagery; hope.
  19. “Snehathin Pranayam” — P. Susheela — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Devotional-romantic hybridity.
  20. “Olavum Theeravum” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Poetic shorelines and longing.
  21. “Urangunna Sundari” — Female vocalist — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Lullaby cadence, soft orchestration.
  22. “Ambalappuzhe” — Chorus/solo — N/A — K. Raghavan

    • Folk-inflected devotional style.
  23. “Neelambalin” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Blue-hued imagery; mellow tune.
  24. “Poovenam” — P. Susheela — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Mughal-like melodic undertones with Malayalam lyricism.
  25. “Kannezhuthiy” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Introspective love lyrics.
  26. “Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha” (lyrical piece) — ensemble — N/A — traditional-influenced composer

    • Epic theme; poetic heroism.
  27. “Mamalakalkkappuram” — Female solo — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Feminine perspective, pastoral images.
  28. “Cheriya Katha” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Story-song style; narrative lyric.
  29. “Vasantham Poovukal” — Chorus/solo — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Springtime and renewal motifs.
  30. “Kavil Chola” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan The Golden Quill: Reflections on ‘Hits of Vayalar’

    • Classical inflections and grandeur.
  31. “Kanneer Thulli” — P. Leela — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Sorrow and pathos made melodic.
  32. “Oru Kamukan” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Character-driven romantic aria.
  33. “Kathu Nammude” — Ensemble — N/A — V. Dakshinamurthy

    • Community and local color.
  34. “Vazhiyoram” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Journey-as-metaphor theme.
  35. “Kannuneer” — P. Susheela — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Poignant female-voiced lament.
  36. “Nilavu Thoovukal” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Moon and petals imagery.
  37. “Tharakam” — Male solo — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Spiritual yearning.
  38. “Mazha Peyyumbol” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Rain symbolism and soft melody.
  39. “Oru Thelinju” — P. Leela — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Subtle emotional shifts.
  40. “Swapnam Vayambum” — S. Janaki — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Dream-state lyricism.
  41. “Kannadi Kaaran” — Male lead — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Light, characterful tune.
  42. “Mazhavil Thalinte” — Female solo — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Colorful and wistful.
  43. “Bhoomiyude” — Chorus — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Earthly empathy and humanism.
  44. “Pookkal Malarunnu” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Flower imagery; tenderness.
  45. “Sudarshanam” — Male solo — N/A — V. Dakshinamurthy

    • Classical devotional style.
  46. “Koodu Cheriya” — Folk duet — N/A — K. Raghavan

    • Rustic charm, duet interplay.
  47. “Ariyaathen” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Longing and unanswered love.
  48. “Njaanoru Puzhayude” — Male solo — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • River metaphor; flowing melody.
  49. “Thumbi Vaa” — Female vocalist — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Playful, lyrical invocation.
  50. “Keralam Vaathil” — Ensemble — N/A — K. Raghavan

    • Homage to homeland.
  51. “Nilakkuyil” — P. Susheela — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Bird imagery; light classical touch.
  52. “Rathriye” — Male solo — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Nocturnal mood piece.
  53. “Neerazhi” — Female solo — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Water imagery and emotional clarity.
  54. “Malarum” — Chorus/duet — N/A — M. S. Baburaj Artists

    • Lyrical bouquet; gentle duet.
  55. “Chandana Chettan” — Folk number — N/A — K. Raghavan

    • Earthy percussion and danceable rhythm.
  56. “Enthe Keralam” — Male chorus — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Patriotic-cultural celebration.
  57. “Sindooram” — S. Janaki — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Married-life imagery; emotional depth.
  58. “Vazhve Mayangumbol” — K. J. Yesudas — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Reflections on life’s fading moments.
  59. “Hridayamennil” — P. Leela — N/A — M. S. Baburaj

    • Heartfelt confession rendered melodically.
  60. “Chitta Chellicharithram” — Ensemble — N/A — G. Devarajan

    • Storytelling lyric with ensemble textures.

Notes:


How to Listen to the Original 60

Finding the pure, unremastered originals can be tricky. Here is your guide:

  1. YouTube Channels to Trust: Look for channel names like Kannur Thamban, Saregama Malayalam (their older uploads), and Sathyam Audios (vintage section). Avoid "revisited" or "remix" tags.
  2. Spotify/Apple Music Playlist: Search for "Vayalar 60" or "Malayalam Golden Hits 1960s." The album "Evergreen Vayalar" on Spotify has decent original masters.
  3. The Vinyl Sound: If you want the real experience, find the YouTube uploads that have the slight needle crackle. That is how our parents heard it.

Why Vayalar’s Songs Are Irreplaceable

Before we dive into the playlist, it is important to understand why Vayalar’s lyrics stand the test of time.

  1. Poetic Depth: Vayalar bridged the gap between high literature and popular cinema. A line like "Thamarakuru poovil... " is simple enough for a child to sing, yet profound enough to move a poet.
  2. The Social Context: Many of his songs during the 60s and 70s were deeply rooted in the social fabric of Kerala. They spoke of revolution, love, and the human condition.
  3. The Magic Trio: The combination of Vayalar (Lyrics) + G. Devarajan (Music) + K.J. Yesudas (Voice) is often referred to as the "Bramha-Vishnu-Maheswara" of Malayalam music.

2. The Devotional Masterpieces

Vayalar had a unique way of addressing the divine.

Closing (listenable primer)

Start with a handful of signature tracks by Vayalar + G. Devarajan (Yesudas/P. Leela/S. Janaki vocals) to get the hallmark sound: emotional clarity, melodic restraint, and poetic imagery. From there, branch into his collaborations with M. S. Baburaj and K. Raghavan for folk and Hindustani-infused flavors.

If you'd like, I can:

Which follow-up do you prefer?

Vayalar Ramavarma , popularly known as Vayalar, remains a towering figure in Malayalam cinema, having penned approximately 1,300 songs for over 250 films. His work, often described as bringing film lyrics closer to poetry, is celebrated for its deep philosophical insights and rich imagery. The Vayalar-Devarajan Legacy

The collaboration between Vayalar and composer G. Devarajan is widely regarded as the "golden era" of Malayalam film music. Together, they produced hundreds of hit songs that remain classics today.

Prolific Partnership: The duo collaborated on 134 films, a world record for such a partnership.

Signature Works: Many of Vayalar's most enduring hits were tuned by Devarajan, including the National Award-winning "Manushyan Mathangale Srishtichu" from Achanum Bappayum (1972). Iconic Hits from the Original Collection

A "Hits of Vayalar" collection typically features a range of romantic, philosophical, and devotional tracks. Some of the most recognized original songs include:

Aayiram Padasarangal: A definitive classic from the film Nadhi (1969), sung by K.J. Yesudas.

Chakravarthini: A celebrated love song from Chembarathi that earned Vayalar the Kerala State Film Award for Best Lyricist.

Sanyasini Nin Punyasramathil: A hauntingly beautiful track from Rajahamsam.

Kaayaampoo Kannil: An evergreen melody featuring the vocals of K.J. Yesudas from the movie Nadhi.

Maanasa Maine Varu: A legendary romantic track from the landmark film Chemmeen (1965), composed by Salil Chowdhury. Versatility in Collaborations

While Devarajan was his most frequent partner, Vayalar also worked with other legendary composers: Keli Nalinam Keli nalinam is a Malayalam song which is released in 2017. Keli Nalinam Akkarapacha

Vayalar Rama Varma is famous for his poetic works that have been turned into timeless songs in Malayalam cinema. His lyrics are known for their poetic beauty, depth, and the emotional resonance they carry. Here are some interesting aspects and a few hits that could be part of such a collection: