చాప చిరిగినా చదరంత కాదు

chapa chirigina chadaranta kadu

Translation

Even if a mat is torn, it won't become as small as a square seat.

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe a person who has lost their wealth or status but still maintains a level of dignity or quality that is superior to those who were never in that position. It implies that a greatness that has declined is still greater than mediocrity.

Related Phrases

The hen that got used to eating (getting fed) ended up crowing from the rooftop.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who is pampered or given too much freedom eventually becomes arrogant, loses their boundaries, and starts behaving inappropriately. It is used to caution against over-indulging someone to the point where they lose respect for rules or hierarchy.

He neither dies nor gives up the mat.

This expression refers to a person who is neither performing a task nor stepping aside to let someone else do it. It is used to describe a stubborn or obstructive person who occupies a position or resource without being productive, effectively blocking progress for everyone else.

Although the mat be torn, will there not be found in it as much as a school boy's mat?

This proverb is used to express optimism or consolation when facing a significant loss. It implies that even after a great ruin or downfall, something of value or a small portion of the original wealth/status will still remain to sustain a person.

Cadaru is a very small square mat. Every thing can be brought to some account. Nothing so bad as not to be good for something. * Quod non opus est, esse carum est.

Whether you roam the village or the city, you only have seven sarees.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person's basic status, limitations, or fortune remain unchanged regardless of their surroundings or efforts to change location. It implies that changing one's environment doesn't necessarily change one's inherent reality or possessions.

If a bull with a broken leg can climb the bank, won't a bull with a broken horn climb it too?

This proverb is used to highlight that if someone with a severe handicap or a major problem can succeed, then someone with a minor flaw or less significant hurdle can surely succeed as well. It encourages resilience by putting problems into perspective.

The saree worn by a courtesan is considered Varanasi silk, while the saree worn by a poor woman is considered madman's silk.

This proverb highlights social prejudice and how the same thing is perceived differently based on a person's status or wealth. If a wealthy or influential person does something, it is praised or seen as a luxury; if a poor person does the same, it is dismissed or looked down upon.

Worn-out bronze and fermented (spoiled) rasam.

This expression is used to describe things that are either useless or highly unpleasant. 'Worn-out bronze' refers to an object that has lost its value or function through overuse, while 'fermented rasam' refers to something that was once good but has now turned foul or toxic. It is often used to criticize poor quality or the bad state of affairs.

Sugar for the parrot, sugar for the ant

This expression describes a situation where a single act or resource benefits everyone involved, regardless of their status or size. It signifies impartiality, universal appeal, or a solution that satisfies diverse needs perfectly. In a broader sense, it refers to something being sweet or beneficial to all.

Old relative - Old tamarind chutney

This expression is used to describe a long-standing relationship or someone who has been known for a very long time. Just as tamarind chutney (Chintakaya Pachadi) is a staple in Telugu households that improves or maintains its value as it ages, an 'old relative' refers to a familiar, dependable, and deeply rooted connection. It is often used jokingly or affectionately when meeting a relative after a long time or discussing a very old family friend.

Like playing a game of chess by placing it directly in front.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone acts with complete transparency, openness, or directness. It refers to conducting affairs in a way that is visible and clear to the opponent or the public, leaving no room for hidden agendas or secret tactics.