చుట్టతాగి చూరులో పెడితే, ఇల్లుకాలి వెళ్ళవలసి వచ్చిందట

chuttatagi churulo pedite, illukali vellavalasi vachchindata

Translation

When a cigar was smoked and placed in the thatch, the house burnt down and they had to leave.

Meaning

This proverb describes how a small, careless, or seemingly insignificant action can lead to massive destruction or irreversible consequences. It is used to caution someone against negligence or to describe a situation where a minor mistake resulted in a total loss.

Related Phrases

Rain that comes in the morning and a relative who arrives late in the day will not leave quickly.

This proverb highlights two situations that are known to persist for a long duration. Morning rain often indicates a rainy day ahead, and a relative arriving in the evening is likely to stay overnight. It is used to describe situations or guests that are expected to linger for quite some time.

Dattu dattu shield and sword, a sharp knife in the eaves of the roof.

This is a rhythmic nursery rhyme or a play-chant used by children in Andhra Pradesh. While it doesn't have a deep philosophical meaning, it is often used as a rhythmic 'counting-out' rhyme or during games to create a sense of bravery and action. It describes traditional weapons like the shield and sword, and a sharp hidden knife, capturing a child's imagination of being a warrior.

Even though Lord Shiva is a friend of the Lord of Wealth, he still had to beg for alms.

This expression highlights that fate or destiny is inevitable. Despite having a powerful or wealthy connection (like Lord Shiva being friends with Kubera, the god of wealth), one might still have to face hardships or fulfill their own destiny. It is used to say that no matter how influential your circle is, you must endure your own trials.

Like Pullayya going to Vemaram and coming back

This expression is used to describe a person who goes on a long journey or takes up a task but returns immediately without achieving anything or even starting the intended work. It highlights a futile, purposeless, or unproductive effort.

That which was discarded in disgust ended up forming a heap.

This proverb describes a situation where something initially rejected or treated with contempt eventually grows in value or quantity to become a significant asset. It is used to highlight the unexpected success or accumulation of things that were once considered worthless.

Achi's wedding ended up leading to Buchi's death.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a celebration or a positive event unintentionally leads to a disaster or a tragic outcome for someone else. It highlights the irony of a festive occasion turning into a cause for sorrow due to unforeseen circumstances or mismanagement.

He is nothing to me but my sister's husband ; the millstone is only valued for the grain it grinds. Átṭu is the plural of Áruga ( Passalum Scrobiculatum ).

This proverb describes people who pretend to be relatives or close friends only when they want something or have a selfish motive. It mocks those who establish connections based on greed or immediate material gain rather than genuine affection.

Like a tassel placed in a fixed spot that unfurls and reaches the street

This expression refers to a situation where a secret or a private matter, despite attempts to keep it contained or 'tucked in,' spreads rapidly and becomes public knowledge. It is used to describe how certain information or rumors are impossible to hide once they start leaking out.

Setting fire to the eaves and asking if I should set fire to the hair bun too.

This expression describes a person who has already caused significant damage or committed a grave error and then asks for permission or guidance to do something even worse. It is used to mock people who act innocently after being intentionally destructive or those who lack common sense regarding the magnitude of their mistakes.

The wedding has reached Venki's death.

Used to describe a situation where an event that started as a joyous celebration or a simple task has turned into a life-threatening or disastrous situation. It is often applied when someone is being pushed to their limits or suffering because of someone else's festivities or demands.