బిడ్డ సంగతి మీగాళ్ళ వాపే తెలుపుతుంది

bidda sangati migalla vape teluputundi

Translation

The health of the child is revealed by the swelling of the feet.

Meaning

This proverb is used to indicate that early signs or symptoms are enough to predict a future outcome or a larger underlying problem. Just as swelling in a child's feet can indicate their physical condition, small indicators often reveal the true nature of a person or a situation.

Related Phrases

The skill of poetry is revealed through the arrangement of 'Yati' (caesura/alliteration).

This expression means that a poet's true craftsmanship and command over the language are tested by how well they manage structural constraints like 'Yati' and 'Prasa' in classical prosody. Metaphorically, it implies that a person's real expertise is demonstrated when they successfully navigate the most difficult or technical aspects of their craft.

If you look at the face, will not the dropsy in the feet be seen?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person's inner feelings, health, or distress are clearly visible through their external appearance or facial expression. It implies that one doesn't need to look deep to find the problem because the signs are obvious.

The face also shows the swelling. Said of a man whose stupidity is shown in his face. In the forehead and the eye, the lecture of the mind doth lie. The countenance is the index of the mind. (Latin.)*

Is a crow white or is leather white anywhere?

This expression is used to highlight an impossible or unnatural situation. Just as a crow can never be white and leather is inherently dark, certain truths or character traits cannot be changed no matter how much one tries to pretend otherwise.

Black reveals four curves, while red hides seven curves.

This traditional Telugu proverb highlights the visual properties of colors in relation to physical appearance. It suggests that darker colors (black) tend to emphasize flaws, bends, or physical imperfections in an object or person, whereas brighter colors (specifically red) can mask or hide many more imperfections, making things look more attractive or seamless than they actually are.

The beauty and prosperity of a village are revealed by its walls.

This expression suggests that the outward appearance or basic infrastructure of a place reflects its overall condition and the well-being of its inhabitants. In a broader sense, it means that first impressions or small details can reveal the internal state of a person, family, or organization.

Sword fighting on the edge of a blade

This expression describes a situation that is extremely precarious, delicate, or risky. It is used when a task requires immense skill, balance, or caution because even a small mistake could lead to disastrous consequences. It is equivalent to the English idiom 'walking on a tightrope' or 'walking on eggshells'.

Only a thief knows the secrets of another thief

This proverb implies that people of the same kind, especially those involved in deceptive or specific activities, understand each other's tactics and mindsets better than outsiders. It is used to suggest that it takes one to know one.

I know the nature of the stitcher, but I don't know the story behind the earrings.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone claims to have deep knowledge of a person's character or a complex situation, yet they are completely ignorant of obvious, surface-level details or specific facts. It highlights a contradiction in one's claims of understanding.

All that a goat knows is about its fodder.

This proverb is used to describe a person with limited knowledge or a narrow perspective, who only thinks about their basic needs or a specific area of interest. It implies that someone lacks foresight or a broader understanding of the world, much like a goat that is only concerned with its next meal.

While planning for a son's marriage, one must also keep the maintenance of grandchildren in mind.

This expression highlights the importance of long-term thinking and foresight. It suggests that when making a major decision or commitment, one should not just look at the immediate event, but also prepare for the future responsibilities and consequences that will inevitably follow.