అప్పవంక బావచుట్టము, ఆళ్లవంక తిరగలి చుట్టము.

appavanka bavachuttamu, allavanka tiragali chuttamu.

Translation

He is nothing to me but my sister's husband ; the millstone is only valued for the grain it grinds. Átṭu is the plural of Áruga ( Passalum Scrobiculatum ).

Meaning

This proverb describes people who pretend to be relatives or close friends only when they want something or have a selfish motive. It mocks those who establish connections based on greed or immediate material gain rather than genuine affection.

Related Phrases

Is he a blood relation, or a dinner relation ?

This proverb is used to question the nature of a relationship. It asks whether a person is a genuine blood relative (pegu chuttam) who cares out of love, or a 'fair-weather friend' (pettu chuttam) who is only around for financial gain, gifts, or personal benefit. It is often used when someone shows sudden interest in a person's life only when they become wealthy or influential.

A table friend is changeable. (French.)‡ * Vache de loin a lait asses. † Geluk en glas brekt even ras. ‡ Ami de table est variable.

For a recluse, there is no relative like the spring season.

A 'Viragi' (one who has renounced worldly pleasures) finds no better companion or 'relative' than the beauty of spring (Amani). It suggests that while such a person avoids human attachments, they find deep spiritual connection and solace in the solitude and serenity of nature's peak beauty.

The one who arrives is a dear relative, the next day a costly burden, and the third day a guest to be packed off.

This proverb describes the diminishing hospitality guests receive over time. It suggests that while a guest is welcomed warmly on the first day, their presence becomes increasingly burdensome and unwelcome the longer they overstay their welcome.

Like saying the head is crooked because one doesn't know how to tie a turban

This expression describes a situation where someone blames external factors or others for their own lack of skill or failure. It is similar to the English proverb: 'A bad workman always blames his tools.'

Feeding makes a relative, and praise brings wealth.

This proverb highlights human nature regarding social relationships and ego. It suggests that a person becomes a relative or close friend as long as they are being fed or provided for, and wealth or status is often maintained or gained through flattery and praise. It is used to describe materialistic relationships or the power of adulation.

A snake's grudge, a tail's kinship

This proverb is used to describe deep-seated, long-lasting enmity. It implies that just as a snake is believed to carry a grudge for a long time, some rivalries are permanent and cannot be easily resolved. It is often used to warn someone about an unforgiving enemy who waits for the right moment to strike.

No relation to visit or god to worship.

This expression describes a person who is completely alone in the world, having neither family/kinsmen to visit nor any spiritual or religious belief/deity to turn to for solace. It is used to signify extreme loneliness or a state of being a total outcast.

Utterly destitute.

The snake is your relation, and it's hood your enemy. Being on friendly terms with members of a family though on bad terms with the head of the house.

This proverb describes a paradoxical situation where a person might be close to you or appear friendly, but their inherent nature or specific actions are dangerous and hostile. It is used to warn someone about a treacherous person who cannot be fully trusted despite a formal relationship or acquaintance.

Entertainments [ bring ] relations, flattery [ brings ] fortune.

This proverb suggests that people become your relatives or show affection as long as you provide for them (serve food/gifts), and fortune or success is often gained through flattering others. It is used to describe the superficial nature of certain social bonds and worldly success.

While the pot boils friendship blooms. (GERMAN.)*

A relative in words, but not a relative at mealtime.

This expression describes people who offer verbal sympathy or make grand promises but disappear when actual help or hospitality (like providing a meal) is required. It refers to someone who is friendly only on the surface and avoids the responsibility of true friendship or kinship.