అద్దం ఉంది, అందమడుగనేల

addam undi, andamaduganela

Translation

When there is a mirror, why ask about one's beauty?

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the truth is self-evident or obvious. It implies that when there is direct evidence available right in front of you, there is no need for external validation or second-hand opinions. It is similar to the English expression 'The proof of the pudding is in the eating'.

Related Phrases

Why thump a stone? Why should your hand be pained? Why bring trouble on your own head?

This proverb is used to advise against engaging in futile or self-destructive actions. It suggests that picking a fight with someone much stronger or attempting an impossible task will only result in self-inflicted harm, so it is better to avoid such unnecessary conflicts.

If there is a shape, there is no beginning (sacred start).

This proverb is used to comment on someone who has physical beauty or a grand appearance but lacks knowledge, basic skills, or a good beginning in education/character. 'Shreekaram' signifies the start of learning or auspiciousness, while 'Aakaram' refers to outward appearance.

Is beauty enough? Shouldn't there be luck too!

This proverb is used to emphasize that physical beauty or talent alone is not sufficient for success or happiness in life; one also needs good fortune or timing. It is often said when a capable or beautiful person faces continuous failures.

Why suffer after consuming salt?

This expression means that one should be prepared to face the consequences of their actions. It is often used to imply that if you have done something wrong or taken a favor (represented by 'salt' in Indian culture as a symbol of loyalty/indebtedness), you must accept the resulting hardship or responsibility without complaining.

Why step in the mud? Why wash the foot?

This expression means that it is better to avoid a bad situation or a known problem altogether rather than getting involved and then trying to fix the consequences. It is used to advise someone to stay away from trouble or unnecessary complications from the start.

Why step in the mud and then why wash your feet?

This proverb is used to advise someone to avoid getting into trouble or making a mistake in the first place, rather than trying to fix it later. It is similar to the English saying 'Prevention is better than cure.' It suggests that one should use foresight to avoid messy situations instead of wasting effort resolving them.

New is a pond for sheep; old is a pond for clothes.

This proverb highlights how people treat possessions differently based on their age. New things are handled with extreme care and kept pristine (like a clean pond), but as they get older, they are used roughly or neglected (like a pond used for washing dirty clothes). It is used to describe the waning enthusiasm or care for something over time.

Why advance a cubit, and sink a fathom ?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the effort put into progress is far outweighed by the resulting loss or setback. It critiques actions that are counterproductive or lack proper planning, leading to a net negative outcome. It is often used when someone tries to gain a little but ends up losing much more.

Why punch a stone and why suffer a hand injury?

This expression is used to advise someone against taking on a task or engaging in a conflict that is clearly beyond their capability or bound to result in self-harm. It questions the wisdom of starting a fight with a much stronger opponent or attempting an impossible task that will only lead to personal pain or failure.

Getting the hand burnt when a ladle is available

This expression is used when someone suffers unnecessary harm or puts in avoidable effort despite having the right tools or resources to complete a task safely. It highlights a lack of common sense or the failure to use available means to protect oneself.