అన్నీ ఉన్నవి, ఐదువతనము లేదు.

anni unnavi, aiduvatanamu ledu.

Translation

I lack nothing, but I am a widow.

Meaning

This proverb describes a situation where one possesses all kinds of material wealth, comforts, and luxuries, but lacks the most essential or vital element that gives meaning to everything else. In a traditional context, it refers to a woman having everything except her husband, but it is used metaphorically to highlight any situation that is technically complete but practically worthless due to a single major void.

Related Phrases

There is no end to religious ceremonies, and there is no find- ing the times [ fixed for the observance of them ].

This expression highlights the cyclical nature of actions and the unpredictability of time. It is used to convey that one's deeds (karma) have continuous consequences and that the future or the timing of events (kala) is never guaranteed or fixed. It serves as a philosophical reminder to be mindful of actions and to respect the uncertainty of life.

Where there is no love, there is no delight.

This proverb explains that without passion, attachment, or desire (Mohamu) for something, one cannot experience true happiness or delight (Modamu) in achieving or having it. It highlights that interest is the prerequisite for enjoyment.

There is no limit to desire. Much would have more. No one is content with his lot. (Portuguese.)* The more one has the more one wants. (Spanish.)?

This expression is used to describe the insatiable nature of human greed or ambition. It implies that once one desire is fulfilled, another takes its place, suggesting that contentment is difficult to achieve if one keeps chasing endless wants.

Are three pairs of leaf-earrings [ wanted ] for three days of wedlock ? Earrings of palm leaves, coloured with lac are worn by brides. Said of an unfortunate young widow.

This proverb is used to criticize someone who makes excessive, unnecessary preparations or investments for a very short-term or temporary situation. It highlights the disproportion between the effort/cost and the actual duration or value of the event.

She has everything except for her husband's life; when a girl is born, her livelihood is born with her.

This entry consists of two distinct expressions. The first part, 'ఆమెకు అన్నీ ఉన్నాయి కానీ ఐదోతనమే లేదు', refers to a woman who has all material wealth but is a widow (lacking 'Aidothanam' or the status of a married woman). The second part, 'ఆడపిల్ల పుట్టినప్పుడే ఆదరువు పుడుతుంది', is a traditional saying suggesting that when a girl is born, her means of survival or luck (often referring to her future marriage and sustenance) are pre-destined or born with her.

Everything is available, but luck is missing.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone has all the resources, facilities, or opportunities available to them, yet they fail to succeed or enjoy the benefits because of bad luck or poor timing. It highlights the irony of having everything except the one thing needed to make it work.

As long as life remains, there is no fear. Until the destined period of life has come to a close death need not be feared. While there is life there is hope.

This expression is used to convey resilience and courage. It suggests that as long as a person is alive, they have the strength to face any challenge or overcome any adversity. It is often used to motivate someone to stay brave during difficult times.

Neither a string nor a top

This expression is used to describe a person who is irresponsible, lacks roots, or has no attachments or accountability. Just as a spinning top cannot be controlled or operated without a string, it refers to someone who is wandering aimlessly or a situation that has no proper foundation or control.

Everything is there, but there is no 'Aidavathanam' (auspicious status of being a wife)

This proverb describes a situation where one possesses all types of wealth, comforts, and material luxuries, but lacks the most essential or core element that gives meaning to everything else. In a traditional context, it refers to a woman who has everything but has lost her husband (becoming a widow), thus making her material wealth feel empty or useless in social rituals. More broadly, it is used to describe a project or situation that looks perfect on the surface but misses the fundamental component required for success.

Everything is present, but the auspicious state of being a wife is missing.

This proverb describes a situation where everything looks perfect on the surface, but a critical, fundamental element is missing that renders everything else useless. In traditional context, 'Aidothanam' refers to being a 'Sumangali' (a woman whose husband is alive), which was considered the most important status. It is used to critique situations that are elaborate but lack the core essence or the most vital component.