అత్తే కావాలి, అత్తెసరే కావాలి.

atte kavali, attesare kavali.

Translation

Want the mother-in-law, and also want the rice cooked in the exact amount of water.

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe a person who wants contradictory things or wants to enjoy a benefit without any of the associated inconveniences. Specifically, it refers to someone who wants their mother-in-law's presence/support but also wants to cook rice with the 'attesar' method (a precise method requiring no excess water to be drained), which is difficult to manage perfectly under supervision or implies a desire for extreme perfection and economy simultaneously.

Related Phrases

No food for the stomach, but an invitation for the parade.

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks basic necessities (like food) but tries to maintain a grand outward appearance or indulges in unnecessary shows of status and extravagance. It highlights the irony of being poor while acting as if one is wealthy or important.

The tamarind tree has sprouted new leaves, and the young girl has grown proud.

This is a rhythmic folk saying or song lyric often used playfully. It draws a metaphorical parallel between the natural growth of a tree (springing new life) and a young person reaching a certain age or status where they exhibit attitude, pride, or self-confidence.

When asked 'What is it, you foolish-faced one?', he replied, 'What is it, dear uncle?'

This proverb is used to describe someone who is so oblivious, thick-skinned, or foolish that they mistake a blatant insult for a term of endearment or a friendly greeting. It highlights a lack of self-respect or an inability to understand the tone and intent of others' words.

All of it is just a hole/gap

This expression is used to describe a situation where there is a total loss, or when something is completely hollow, empty, or useless despite appearances. It implies that everything has gone down the drain or that the entirety of a matter results in nothingness.

Is a bullock which has fallen down from fatigue afraid of a tiger ? Resignation to one's fate through utter helplessness.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who has already lost everything or is in an extreme state of suffering no longer fears further threats or consequences. It is used to indicate that when a person is at their lowest point or has nothing left to lose, intimidation no longer works on them.

Like a rabbit entering a hunter's house without him having to search for it.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a desired object or a solution to a problem comes to someone effortlessly, or when an enemy unknowingly walks right into a trap. It signifies an unexpected stroke of luck or a target presenting itself without any pursuit.

The children of the deceased woman are under the feet of the newcomer.

This proverb describes the plight of motherless children who are often neglected or mistreated by a stepmother or a new person entering the household. It is used to highlight situations where vulnerable individuals lose their protection and are left at the mercy of someone who may not care for their well-being.

When asked, 'Why did you come, Ellamma?', she replied, 'Not for that, I just came for some fire.'

This proverb is used to describe someone who tries to hide their true motive or a guilty conscience by giving a trivial, unrelated excuse. It typically refers to a situation where someone is caught in an awkward position or unwanted visit and makes up a weak reason to justify their presence.

Father's day is a cradle, mother's day is a cradle.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is extremely lazy or pampered, expecting to be served and comforted constantly regardless of the occasion or who is providing for them. It signifies a life of idle luxury or a refusal to take up responsibilities, likening their existence to a baby forever swaying in a cradle.

If one says 'Thoo' (spit/insult), the other said 'Bala' (excellent/good).

This proverb is used to describe a person who is shameless or lacks self-respect. It refers to someone who takes an insult or a criticism as a compliment, often due to thick-skinned behavior or a refusal to acknowledge their mistakes.