ఆశలేనివానికి దేశమెందుకు?

ashalenivaniki deshamenduku?

Translation

Why should a man without desire be in the world ?

Meaning

This proverb suggests that for someone who lacks ambition, desire, or interest in life, their surroundings or environment become irrelevant. It implies that a sense of purpose is what drives a person to engage with the world; without it, even a whole country or great opportunities have no value to them. It is used to describe a state of total indifference or renunciation.

Related Phrases

Why have a mustache on a mouth that lacks self-respect?

In Telugu culture, a mustache is often seen as a symbol of pride, dignity, and masculinity. This proverb is used to criticize someone who lacks a sense of honor or fails to stand up for themselves despite their outward appearance of strength or maturity. It suggests that external symbols of dignity are useless if one does not possess the inner character or 'Rosham' (self-respect/righteous anger) to back it up.

When honor has gone, why life ?

This expression emphasizes the supreme value of dignity and self-respect over physical life. It is used to convey that for a person of principles, living with disgrace or humiliation is worse than death.

Take away my good name, and take away my life. Either live or die wi' honour.

Wandering across nations for the sake of appearances.

This proverb describes someone who travels to far-off places or spends excessive resources just to show off, maintain a certain status, or seek vanity. It is often used to criticize people who neglect their responsibilities or exhaust their wealth simply to gain superficial recognition or to keep up appearances.

Why does the one who doesn't plow need a cloth? Why does the one who cannot rule need a wife?

This proverb highlights the importance of effort and responsibility. It suggests that a person who is unwilling to perform basic labor or fulfill their duties does not deserve the rewards or status that come with them. It is used to mock lazy or incompetent individuals who demand privileges without doing the necessary work.

Why does the one who doesn't plow need grass? Why does the one who doesn't govern need a wife?

This proverb emphasizes accountability and the relationship between responsibility and ownership. It suggests that if a person is unwilling to work or perform the duties associated with a role, they do not deserve the resources or benefits that come with it. It is used to criticize those who want the perks of a position without putting in the necessary effort.

What does a just man care for the favor of the priest? ప.

This expression suggests that for a person who lives an upright, moral, and righteous life, external blessings or divine/educational intervention are secondary. It emphasizes that following 'Dharma' (justice) is the highest form of virtue, and such integrity protects the person on its own without needing special favors or advocacy.

There is no country without Tamilians and no village without crows.

This is a popular Telugu saying used to describe the ubiquitous nature of Tamil people. It implies that just as crows are found in every corner of the world, you will find someone from the Tamil community (Arava) living and working everywhere, highlighting their widespread migration and presence.

Misery for the times and troubles for the country.

This expression is used to describe a period of collective misfortune or a series of calamities affecting a whole region or nation. It implies that when times are bad, hardships become widespread and inevitable, often used when discussing economic crises, natural disasters, or political instability.

A relative who doesn't help in need, a deity who doesn't grant a wish after prayer, and a horse that doesn't move forward in the end.

This expression highlights the futility of things or people that fail to serve their purpose at the critical moment. It is used to describe situations where resources, relationships, or tools prove useless precisely when they are most needed.

There is no country where people don't shout and no village where crows don't exist.

This proverb is used to indicate that certain things are universal and inescapable. Just as you will find crows in every village, you will find noise, problems, or specific types of people everywhere you go. It suggests that one cannot find a 'perfect' place free from common disturbances.