చీకట్లో చిందులాట

chikatlo chindulata

Translation

Dancing in the dark

Meaning

This expression refers to activities done in secrecy or efforts that go unrecognized and wasted because they are performed where no one can see. It is used to describe futile actions or deceptive behavior carried out away from public scrutiny.

Related Phrases

Does a firefly fear the darkness?

This expression is used to describe someone who is exceptionally brave, self-reliant, or possesses an internal strength that allows them to navigate difficult or 'dark' situations without external help. Just as a firefly carries its own light and isn't hindered by the night, a person with true character or talent is not intimidated by adversity or lack of resources.

Raindrops on marshy fields, and the playful antics of a young girl.

This poetic expression draws a parallel between the unpredictability and refreshing nature of rain falling on muddy agricultural fields and the lively, spontaneous, and sometimes erratic behavior of a young girl. It is used to describe things that are natural, lively, and captivating in their own messy or unpredictable way.

Wrestling under a blanket (or wrestling behind a mask/veil)

This expression refers to a conflict, fight, or struggle that happens secretly or behind the scenes, away from public view. It is used when two parties are working against each other while maintaining an outward appearance of normalcy, or when internal politics are occurring within a group that others cannot clearly see.

Playing with food like a child, and playing with flowers when the shepherd arrives.

This expression describes a person who is constantly distracted or playful when there is work to be done. It is used to characterize someone who lacks seriousness, moving from one trivial activity to another instead of focusing on their responsibilities.

A brilliant gem in the darkness.

This expression refers to someone or something that stands out or shines brightly in difficult, obscure, or unfavorable circumstances. It is often used to describe a person of great merit who is hidden in a crowd or a solution that brings hope during a period of crisis.

A bright exception among a bad lot.

The cotton cleaner's tugging and the shepherd's thumping

This proverb is used to describe a situation where people are engaged in tedious, endless, and noisy disputes or trivial struggles that lead to no productive outcome. It refers to the characteristic repetitive sounds and actions of traditional cotton carding (Pinjari) and sheep herding/weaving (Kuruva), signifying a chaotic or noisy commotion over petty matters.

May a man fight with his Guru ?

This expression is used when someone challenges, argues with, or tries to outsmart their own mentor, expert, or the person who taught them everything they know. It implies that such a conflict is disrespectful, foolish, or a losing battle for the student.

To dance around like a decorated bull possessed by a deity.

This expression is used to describe someone who is acting in an uncontrollably aggressive, chaotic, or agitated manner. It likens a person's wild behavior or angry outburst to the frenzied movements of a 'Gangireddu' (sacred decorated bull) when it is perceived to be possessed or extremely restless.

Just as the darkness is thickest before the dawn.

This expression means that difficulties or challenges often become most intense right before a positive change or success occurs. It is used to encourage someone to stay patient and hopeful during their hardest times, as relief is near.

Like performing the Shiva dance (Shiva Tandavam) in a pitch-dark room.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is performing a great deal of work or making a lot of effort, but because it is done in secret or without any visibility, no one notices or appreciates it. It can also refer to pointless or chaotic activity that yields no recognition.