ధైర్యే సాహసే లక్ష్మి

dhairye sahase lakshmi

Translation

Fortune favors the brave

Meaning

This expression means that wealth and prosperity (Lakshmi) reside with those who possess courage and the willingness to take risks. It is used to encourage someone to be brave in the face of challenges, suggesting that success follows those who act boldly.

Related Phrases

By the festival of Mahalakshmi, the cold rises to the crown of the head.

This traditional Telugu saying describes the seasonal transition of weather. It indicates that by the time of the Mahalakshmi festival (usually occurring in late October or November during the Kartika month), the winter chill becomes significant enough to be felt intensely, specifically referring to the sensation of cold hitting the 'madu' (crown of the head). It is used to remark on the arrival of peak winter.

When thought to be a groom of good virtues, all the bad traits were revealed.

This expression is used when someone who was initially perceived to be highly virtuous, talented, or perfect turns out to have many hidden flaws or negative qualities. It highlights the disappointment when reality contradicts a positive first impression or an idealized image.

Fortune favors the brave

This proverb suggests that wealth and success (represented by Goddess Lakshmi) come to those who possess courage and the willingness to take risks. It is used to encourage someone to be bold and decisive in their actions rather than being hesitant or fearful.

In a village without cows, even a barren buffalo is considered Goddess Lakshmi.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where, in the absence of high-quality options or truly talented people, even someone with mediocre skills or a sub-par alternative is treated as superior or highly valuable. It is similar to the English expression 'In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.'

Loose change is the Goddess Mahalakshmi herself.

This expression is used to emphasize the importance of small denominations of money or loose change. It suggests that one should not underestimate the value of small coins, as they collectively represent wealth and are essential for daily transactions and financial discipline.

A barren buffalo is the emblem of Mahâ Lakshmî, in a village where there are no cows.

This expression is used to describe a situation where, in the absence of something truly superior or qualified, even a mediocre or inferior alternative is highly valued. It is similar to the English proverb 'In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.'

Mahâ Lakshmî is the goddess of fortune. The one-eyed is a king in the land of the blind.

Goddess Lakshmi has many incarnations.

This expression is used sarcastically to describe someone who is extremely moody, unpredictable, or puts on many different 'acts' and pretenses. It suggests that a person changes their behavior or temperament frequently, much like a deity taking on different forms.

Employment makes the man ; he is a luckless fellow if he lose it.

While the original proverb 'Udyogam Purusha Lakshanam' emphasizes that work/effort defines a person's character and dignity, this extended humorous or sarcastic version suggests that losing one's job or being unemployed is seen as a flaw or a social stigma. It is often used to highlight the societal pressure regarding employment and financial stability.

If Lakshanam is neglected it becomes Avalakshanam.

This expression means that a small flaw or a lapse in character can turn a virtue into a vice. It is used to caution people that maintaining one's good reputation or quality requires consistency, as even a minor deviation can lead to being perceived negatively.

There is a pun here on the word Lakshanam which as a noun signifies the ' rules of classic composition,' and as an adjective ' handsome.'—Ava- lakshanam means ' ugly,' ' deformed.'

Monday is Shuba Lakshmi, Tuesday is Maha Lakshmi

This phrase is typically used by street vendors, beggars, or traditional performers to praise potential donors or customers on specific days of the week. It suggests that since the day is auspicious (Monday or Tuesday), the person giving charity or making a purchase will be blessed with prosperity and wealth. It is a form of rhythmic flattery used to encourage generosity.