‘Villinai Otha’ is a Tamil folk composition (Kavadi Chindu) by Mahakavi Subramania Bharathi (1882-1921). Bharathi was a prolific composer who has made remarkable contributions to the Carnatic culture. He was an expert in multiple languages and an accomplished writer, poet, journalist, social reformer who fought for Indian independence.

This composition is full of rich descriptions of Lord Murugan – the most powerful deity worshipped in southern India. Murugan is a symbol of valour and war. The poet passionately praises Him for his ability to pin down his enemies with the strength of a lion and at the same time, to romance and marry a beautiful woman, Valli, with all the tenderness of a lover.

Unnikrishnan showcases the meter of the song with excellent laya as he decorates the song with a variety of key phrases. Jyotsna Srikanth gives a beautiful accompaniment on the violin, supporting Unnikrishnan with joyful responses.

Bangalore Praveen (mridangam) and RN Prakash (ghatam) give rich accompaniment on the percussions, adding timely and spontaneous textures to this musical piece.

Musicians 
P. Unnikrishnan (vocal) 
Jyotsna Srikanth (violin) 
Bangalore Praveen (mridangam) 
RN Prakash (ghatam) 
Priya Prakash (tanpura) 

Villinai Otha, Tamil folk song composed by Mahakavi Subramania Bharathi (1882-1921)