బిడ్డ చచ్చినా తొట్లమర్ల ఉడుగలేదు

bidda chachchina totlamarla udugaledu

Translation

The baby died, but the rocking of the cradle hasn't stopped.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a situation where a core purpose or person is gone, yet the superficial habits, rituals, or mechanical processes associated with them continue aimlessly. It highlights the absurdity of continuing an action that has lost its original meaning or utility.

Related Phrases

People turn as the festival turns.

This expression is used to describe the fickle nature of crowds or public opinion. Just as people move and change direction according to the flow of a festival (Jatara), people's allegiances or behaviors often change based on the current trend, situation, or prevailing crowd sentiment.

The reputation gained will not leave even after death

This expression emphasizes that once a person earns a certain reputation—whether good or bad—it stays with them for life and remains even after they pass away. It is often used to remind someone that their actions have long-lasting consequences on their legacy.

Even if kingdoms are lost, character/traits are not lost

This proverb describes a person who continues to exhibit their characteristic behavior (often arrogance, extravagance, or specific habits) even after losing their wealth, status, or power. It suggests that while external fortunes change, innate nature or ingrained habits remain the same.

They say a vulture died because a crow was hit.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an action is taken against a minor or irrelevant target, but the result is claimed to have affected a much larger or more significant entity. It highlights a false sense of achievement or a logical fallacy where two unrelated events are linked to exaggerate one's prowess.

Pinching the thigh and then rocking the cradle.

This expression describes the hypocritical behavior of someone who secretly causes a problem and then pretends to offer comfort or help. It is used to describe individuals who act like a savior for a crisis they themselves created.

The dead child has eyes as large as palms.

This proverb is used to describe how people tend to exaggerate the qualities, virtues, or potential of something or someone only after they are lost or no longer exist. It highlights the human tendency to glorify the past or missed opportunities.

Like placing sandals on a dead cow

This expression refers to a situation where a person is insulted or treated poorly after they have already faced a major downfall or loss. It signifies adding insult to injury or showing disrespect to someone who can no longer defend themselves.

The baby died, but the smell of its excrement remains.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a problem or a person is gone, but the negative consequences, bad reputation, or 'stink' they created still lingers and continues to cause trouble.

Calumny is not removed even by death.

This expression is used to describe a deeply ingrained habit, trait, or skill that stays with a person throughout their lifetime. It suggests that once something is learned or becomes part of a person's nature, it is nearly impossible to change or get rid of it.

Slander leaves a slur. Give a dog an ill name, and you may as well hang him.

Even though the child died, the naming ceremony went well.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the primary purpose or the main goal of an event is lost or failed, but the superficial or secondary formalities were celebrated successfully. It highlights the irony of focusing on the process or celebration while ignoring a catastrophic outcome.