“Saamiyumillai; Boodhamumillai”
Ponniyin Selvan“Saamiyumillai; Boodhamumillai” is an idiom meaning “Neither God, nor demons,” and a concise expression of disbelief in both deities and demons. In Udayaar’s explanation of the differing natures of generations of Chozha kings, it gives a memorable name to the rejection of religion and suggests the breadth of belief represented in the society of the novel.
Meaning and Usage
The phrase is described as a popular idiom used plainly to express atheism. Its literal meaning, “Neither God, nor demons,” rejects both divine and demonic beings rather than substituting one supernatural explanation for another. The expression’s familiar, compact form makes disbelief legible as an idea already present in everyday speech.
Context in the Narrative
Udayaar uses the sentiment while explaining to his grandson, Aditha Karikalan, the different natures of successive Chozha kings. The phrase appears as part of a reflection on how varied those generations have been, including people who disdained religion and rejected both deities and demons. It therefore belongs to a conversation about difference across generations, not to a debate staged between opposing speakers.
Cultural Significance
The idiom’s existence and apparent familiarity are presented as evidence of the inclusive, tolerant, and broad-minded character of Tamil society. Its significance lies not only in naming atheism but in showing that such a view could be expressed within a wider range of beliefs. The phrase thus condenses a social observation into an everyday expression: religious rejection is acknowledged as one position among others.
