దొరల చిత్తం, చెట్ల నీడ నిలకడ లేనివి.

dorala chittam, chetla nida nilakada lenivi.

Translation

The will of masters and the shadow of trees are inconsistent.

Meaning

This proverb highlights the instability and unpredictability of powerful people (lords/masters) and nature. Just as the shade of a tree moves as the sun changes position, the favors or moods of those in power are never constant and cannot be relied upon for long-term security.

Related Phrases

The cactus has no fruit and provides no shade to stand under.

This expression is used to describe a person who is completely useless or of no benefit to others. Just as the cactus plant neither offers food (fruit) nor relief from the sun (shade), some people possess neither resources to share nor a helpful nature.

No shade to stand under, or branch to clutch. Helpless and forlorn.

This expression is used to describe a person who is completely destitute, homeless, or lacking any form of support system. It signifies a state of total helplessness where someone has no place to stay and no one to rely on for help.

The truth will be known with steadiness (over time).

This expression means that the truth eventually reveals itself as time passes. It is used to advise patience when someone is being falsely accused or when facts are currently obscured, suggesting that one should wait for the situation to settle for the reality to emerge.

A son-in-law is not a permanent relative, and the shadow of a castor oil plant is not real shade.

This proverb highlights the transitory or unreliable nature of certain things. Just as the castor oil plant is too small and thin to provide substantial or lasting shade, a son-in-law's primary allegiance is to his own family, making his presence in the natal family's affairs temporary or unreliable in the long run. It is used to caution against over-dependence on people or things that lack depth or permanence.

The rain of the Chitta star falls wherever it pleases.

This proverb refers to the Chitta Karthe (a specific period in the lunar calendar). It describes the unpredictable nature of rainfall during this time, which is often localized rather than widespread. In a broader sense, it is used to describe a person who acts solely according to their own whims and fancies, or situations where outcomes are highly selective and arbitrary.

An illicit husband and the shade of a palm tree are both unstable.

This proverb highlights things that lack permanence or reliability. Just as the shade of a tall, thin palm tree shifts rapidly and offers no real shelter, an illicit or informal relationship lacks legal or social security. It is used to describe situations or people that cannot be depended upon in the long run.

Truth is known upon settling down

This expression means that the truth will eventually reveal itself over time. It is used to suggest that one should be patient when facing false accusations or confusion, as time and stability will eventually bring the facts to light.

The word of an unstable man is a bundle of water.

This expression refers to someone who lacks consistency or reliability in their character. Just as it is impossible to tie water in a bundle, it is impossible to hold a fickle person to their promises. It is used to caution against trusting the words of those who frequently change their minds or lack integrity.

A fool's speech is a bubble of air.

An unstable word is like a bundle of water.

This proverb is used to describe a person who does not stick to their word or lacks consistency in their promises. Just as it is impossible to pack or carry water in a bundle, the promises of an inconsistent person have no substance and cannot be relied upon.

The shadow of a palm tree is not a real shade, and a paramour is not a husband.

This proverb highlights that some things are unreliable or lack substance despite appearances. Just as the tall palm tree provides very little actual shade for someone seeking cover, a person in a casual or illicit relationship cannot provide the security, commitment, or social standing of a spouse. It is used to describe temporary or deceptive situations that fail to offer true protection or long-term stability.