అయినవారికి ఆకుల్లో, కానివారికి కంచాల్లో పెట్టినట్లు.

ayinavariki akullo, kanivariki kanchallo pettinatlu.

Translation

Like serving one's own people on leaves and others in plates.

Meaning

Traditionally, eating on a leaf was considered superior or more respectful than a plate. This expression describes showing favoritism or partiality, where someone treats their close relatives or favorites with special care while neglecting or being formal/distant with others.

Related Phrases

Like roasting pigeon peas in the loincloth.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is causing extreme discomfort, irritation, or restlessness to another person. It refers to a metaphorical state of being extremely bothered or being put in a very tight, prickly situation where one cannot sit still or remain calm.

The alms received witness to those who gave; those who gave not, truly do not receive. If the charitable become poor, they will not ask for help in vain ; but the uncharitable will obtain nothing.

This proverb highlights that the results of charity or kind deeds are visible through the prosperity and well-being of future generations (descendants). Conversely, those who are miserly or unkind leave no such legacy behind. It is used to emphasize that one's generosity is often reflected in the success of their children or the enduring impact of their legacy.

To those who are unwilling to work, those who say 'no' are like parents.

This expression is used to describe lazy people who look for excuses to avoid work. Just as children are happy when parents tell them they don't have to do something, a lazy person feels grateful and relieved when someone stops them from working or gives them a reason to quit.

The lazy man looks upon those as his parents who say " Don't [ work ]." An idler is delighted at every interruption.

This proverb is used to describe people who are looking for any excuse to avoid work. To a lazy person, someone who stops them from working or tells them not to do a task feels like a benefactor or a guardian, as it aligns with their desire to remain idle.

Like breaking into the house of the person who fed you.

This expression describes extreme ingratitude or betrayal. It refers to a person who harms their benefactor or someone who has helped them in their time of need. It is used to condemn the act of biting the hand that feeds you.

Whose flesh is cut, it is they who feel the pain.

This proverb is used to emphasize that only the person who is actually experiencing a hardship or loss truly understands the pain of it. It is often said to people who offer superficial sympathy or advice without understanding the depth of another's struggle.

Avakaya (mango pickle) for women, a bald coconut for men.

This is a humorous and playful rhyming expression often used in casual settings to highlight the stereotypical preferences or traits of the genders, or to tease someone. It suggests that women are fond of spicy pickles (Avakaya), while men are like coconuts—plain or perhaps referring to balding patterns in a lighthearted way. It doesn't carry a serious philosophical meaning but is used for rhythmic banter.

Everyone's own madness is a source of joy to them.

This proverb is used to describe how people have their own unique quirks, hobbies, or obsessions that might seem strange or foolish to others but bring immense happiness to themselves. It suggests that one should not judge others' personal interests, as subjective satisfaction is what matters most to the individual.

Serving loved ones on leaves and strangers on plates.

This proverb describes unfair partiality or double standards. Paradoxically, the 'outsiders' or those one wants to impress are given better treatment (plates), while one's own family or close associates are neglected or given lower priority (leaves), despite their loyalty.

Sleeping within ruined walls, but talking in his sleep of upper storied houses.

This proverb describes a person who lives in miserable or poor conditions but boasts or dreams of grand, unattainable things. It is used to mock someone who talks beyond their actual status or means, highlighting the gap between their reality and their pretensions.

* Montes veen, paredes oyen.