భారం పైన పడినప్పుడే బరువు తెలిసేది

bharam paina padinappude baruvu telisedi

Translation

The weight is only felt when the burden falls upon oneself

Meaning

This proverb implies that one can only truly understand the difficulty or responsibility of a task when they have to handle it personally. It is often used to describe situations where people criticize others' struggles without experiencing them, or when someone finally realizes the gravity of a situation once they are held accountable for it.

Related Phrases

Even after going to Kashi, the weight of the yoke remains.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person's problems, character, or burdens follow them no matter where they go or how far they travel. It emphasizes that a change of place does not necessarily result in a change of fortune or relief from responsibilities if the root cause remains within the person or their destiny.

Borrowed jewelry is only a burden.

This proverb highlights that borrowing things (especially ornaments or jewelry) for the sake of showing off only brings anxiety and a sense of burden, as one is constantly worried about their safety and eventual return. It is used to advise people to live within their means and be content with what they own.

Borrowing is not permanent, and a burden does not become light.

This proverb highlights the temporary nature of borrowed items or money (eruvu) and the reality that debt or responsibility (baruvu) remains heavy regardless of how one tries to ignore it. It is used to advise against relying on borrowed resources and to encourage self-sufficiency.

Whatever the jump or startle, the weight of the pack remains.

This proverb means that no matter how much one tries to complain, dodge, or react to a situation, the fundamental responsibility or burden cannot be escaped. It is often used to describe situations where a person makes a lot of noise or shows reluctance, yet ultimately must complete the task assigned to them.

A tree knows no drought, and a merchant knows no burden.

This proverb highlights the inherent resilience or nature of certain entities. A tree provides shade and fruit regardless of external conditions, and a savvy merchant (traditionally referred to as Komati) always finds a way to manage their trade or load without feeling the 'weight' or loss. It is used to describe situations where people are naturally equipped to handle specific hardships or roles.

Like a tigress that has just given birth falling upon you.

This expression is used to describe someone who is extremely aggressive, fierce, or reacting with sudden and intense rage. Just as a tigress is most protective and dangerous right after giving birth, it refers to a situation where a person attacks or scolds someone with peak intensity.

Grandfather's wedding is whenever it is thought of

This expression is used to mock someone who wants something to happen instantly or impulsively without considering the necessary preparation, time, or feasibility. It highlights the absurdity of expecting major events to occur just because one suddenly had the idea.

Credit in the shop, a burden on the head.

This proverb highlights the stress and mental burden that debt causes. Even if one buys something on credit (loan) from a shop, the thought of repayment weighs heavily on the mind like a physical load. It is used to caution people against taking loans or buying things they cannot immediately afford.

The true scent of a leaf is only revealed when it is crushed.

This proverb suggests that a person's true character, strength, or integrity is revealed only when they are put under pressure or face difficult circumstances. Just as crushing a leaf releases its fragrance, trials reveal a person's inner nature.

Credit in the shop is a burden on the head

This proverb highlights the stress and psychological weight of debt. Even if one can buy things on credit easily at a market, the obligation to repay it remains a constant mental burden. It is used to advise people against taking unnecessary loans or living beyond their means.