చెరుకుకు చెరుపు శూలంగి

cherukuku cherupu shulangi

Translation

The 'shulangi' pest is the destruction of sugarcane.

Meaning

This proverb refers to how a specific pest (shulangi) can ruin an entire sugarcane crop. Metaphorically, it is used to describe a situation where a single person or a small internal flaw can lead to the downfall or ruin of an entire family, group, or organization.

Related Phrases

For one seer a seer and a quarter. A greater ruffian than another. To a rogue a rogue and a half. (French.)

This expression is used to describe a situation where one person meets their match or encounters someone even more capable, clever, or aggressive than themselves. It is equivalent to the English proverb 'Diamond cuts diamond' or 'To meet one's match.'

What is the tip and what is the base of a sugarcane?

This expression is used to describe something that is consistently good, uniform, or enjoyable from beginning to end. Just as the sweetness of sugarcane is present throughout the stalk, it refers to situations or people whose quality or nature does not change over time or across different parts.

Rain only as much as the lightning

This expression is used to describe a situation where the outcome or result is proportional to the effort or signs shown. It implies that one should not expect a massive result (heavy rain) if the indications or efforts (lightning) are minimal. It is often used to tell someone that they will get exactly what they deserve or what they have worked for, no more and no less.

One should live close to a lake and far from relatives.

This proverb highlights the importance of being near essential resources (like water) for survival while maintaining a healthy distance from relatives to avoid unnecessary conflicts, gossip, or dependence that can arise from over-familiarity.

For a seer, a seer and a quarter.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone meets their match or encounters someone even more capable, cunning, or stronger than themselves. It implies that for every expert, there is always someone better.

A house ruined by God will be further ruined by a spider.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who is already suffering from great misfortune or divine ill-fate is further troubled by a small, insignificant person or minor problem. It is used when a person in a weak position is bullied or exploited by someone even less powerful.

If weeds are not removed, it is harmful to the crop

This proverb emphasizes the importance of timely intervention and maintenance. Just as weeds compete with crops for nutrients and sunlight, if we do not address negative influences or small problems early on, they will eventually destroy our growth or hard work. It is used to suggest that one should eliminate bad habits or distractions to succeed.

Though the sugar-cane is crooked, will it lose its sweetness ?

This proverb emphasizes that external appearance or physical flaws do not diminish the inner quality or character of a person. Just as a bent sugarcane remains sweet, a person's worth is defined by their virtues and skills rather than their looks or physical state.

Good blood cannot lie. (French.)!

Dew harms mangoes, and kitchen wastewater harms coconut trees.

This is an agricultural proverb reflecting traditional wisdom. It means that excessive mist or dew during the flowering stage can ruin a mango crop by causing pests or fungal growth, while pouring salty or used kitchen water (kuditi) at the base of a coconut tree can hinder its growth or health.

Will a ruined field produce sugarcane or high-quality rice?

This proverb suggests that you cannot expect a superior or high-quality outcome from a foundation that is fundamentally damaged or poor. It is used to emphasize that the quality of the result is directly dependent on the quality of the source or environment.