Fate/Karma

This is a traditional astrological saying or superstition used in Telugu culture regarding agriculture and new ventures. It suggests that tasks initiated during the specific initial phase of the Arudra star (nakshatra) are destined for failure or will face significant hurdles. It is used to caution people to choose an auspicious time (muhurtham) before starting important work.

This expression is often used to highlight that even the most powerful or disciplined individuals (like Lord Shiva) have weaknesses or can be influenced by certain forces. In a broader context, it implies that certain outcomes are inevitable or that no one is entirely immune to nature or destiny.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an obstacle or a stubborn person is met with an even more persistent or overwhelming force. It suggests that if someone refuses to be flexible or act accordingly, circumstances will eventually force a confrontation or a result right where they stand. It is often used to imply that one cannot escape the consequences of their nature or actions.

This expression is used to describe a situation where one person stands out significantly from the rest, but even their small tools or specific eccentricities are equally formidable or noteworthy. It highlights exceptional skill, importance, or the unique weight of a person's character compared to a large group.

* Besser freundlich versagen, als unwilling gewähren.

This proverb is used to discuss destiny and timing in a traditional household context. It suggests that the fortune (good or bad) of a family is often attributed to the timing of significant arrivals, such as acquiring livestock or a new daughter-in-law entering the home. It is frequently used when a family's luck changes immediately after a wedding.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person who is already struggling or living in poverty is struck by a major, unexpected disaster or misfortune. It highlights the cruelty of fate where those with the least resources are often the ones hit hardest by life's calamities.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb related to the lunar mansions (Kartes). It implies that even if the rains fail during other periods, the rains during the 'Hasta Karthe' are reliable and inevitable. In a broader sense, it refers to a dependable final chance or a certainty that one can rely on when everything else fails.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone turns to spirituality or starts thinking about God only when they are in extreme misery or facing severe poverty. It highlights the human tendency to seek divine intervention as a last resort when all material means fail.

This expression signifies that natural forces or hardships do not discriminate based on status, wealth, or caste. Just as the night brings darkness to everyone regardless of who they are, certain universal truths or inevitable situations affect all of humanity in the same manner.

This is a traditional Sanskrit saying often used in Telugu culture. It suggests that a son is essential for performing last rites and ensuring the spiritual liberation of the parents after death. In modern contexts, it is sometimes cited when discussing family lineage or the desire for male heirs.

This expression is used to convey that even the most beautiful or seemingly perfect person or situation has some inherent flaw, hidden sorrow, or minor bitterness. Just as a tender plant (chiguruboni) might still carry the bitterness associated with nature, every individual faces their own share of troubles or possess some defects.

This proverb describes a situation where something you were seeking or planning to travel for becomes available to you unexpectedly and effortlessly. It is used when a desired opportunity presents itself right at your doorstep just as you were about to put in effort to attain it.

A thing sought for to come to hand without trouble.

This expression refers to the unpredictable nature of fate or perspective where something as small as a piece of straw (Trunamu) can become as massive as the mythical Mount Meru, and vice versa. It is used to describe how a trivial matter can escalate into a huge issue, or how a great power can be reduced to nothing in an instant.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone makes a poor choice against the advice of well-wishers and then tries to justify the unfortunate consequences as if they were intended or deserved. It highlights the irony of stubbornly sticking to a bad decision even when it results in hardship.

This expression refers to a situation where someone is spared or survives a calamity while others perish, or more commonly, it describes a goat that is kept for breeding/milk rather than being slaughtered for meat. In a metaphorical sense, it signifies a survivor who carries the responsibility of nurturing or continuing a legacy.

* Der Eine schlägt den Nagel ein, der Andere hängt den Hut daran. 3 ( 17 )

This expression highlights the fundamental characteristics of the afterlife realms in Hindu mythology: Hell (Naraka) is a place of absolute punishment where no sympathy is shown, while Heaven (Nakalu/Swarga) is a place of eternal life where the concept of mortality does not exist. It is used to describe situations of extremes or the inevitable nature of certain environments.

This proverb refers to the 'Swati' nakshatram (star constellation). It signifies that during the auspicious Swati rain, even a small amount of rain is considered so potent and significant that it metaphorically fills the vast oceans. It is used to describe how a timely blessing or a single positive event can bring immense abundance and fulfillment.

This expression refers to a state of being stuck between two goals or situations, unable to reach the desired destination while also being unable to return to the starting point. It is used to describe a dilemma or a 'limbo' state where one is suspended without progress or stability, originating from the mythological story where King Trishanku was suspended between Heaven and Earth by Vishwamitra.

This proverb is based on the belief in 'Prarabdha Karma' or fate. It suggests that unless something is predestined (written by Brahma on one's forehead), it will not manifest in reality or be expressed through one's words. It is used to describe situations where things only happen if they are meant to be.

This proverb describes a situation where someone acts recklessly or fails to take basic precautions, and then expects a divine or miraculous intervention to save them. It is used to criticize people who do not take responsibility for their actions and instead leave everything to fate or luck.