ఏకుదారము, ఏగాని పుస్తె.

ekudaramu, egani puste.

Translation

A thread of cotton and a cheap coin's worth of wedding locket.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a state of extreme poverty or a very minimalist, humble lifestyle. It literally refers to a marriage conducted with the barest of essentials—just a simple thread and the cheapest possible ornament—signifying someone who has no material wealth or possessions.

Related Phrases

What does it matter if the Vempali plant flowers or bears fruit?

This proverb refers to things or actions that are completely useless or have no impact on anyone. The Vempali (Wild Indigo) plant is considered useless for consumption or major utility; hence, whether it flourishes or not makes no difference to the world. It is used to describe an insignificant person's presence or a redundant effort.

The wedding locket, the beads, and the turmeric are all just for the sake of sanctity.

This expression is typically used to describe a situation where one performs duties or maintains appearances solely for the sake of tradition, honor, or sanctity, often implying that there is no deeper benefit or joy beyond fulfilling the basic requirements of a role or relationship. It highlights the sacrifices made to uphold the sacredness of a bond.

Good conduct and family life.

This expression highlights that a person's good character (Nalasaramu) and their family/domestic life (Samsaramu) are the two pillars of a respectable existence. It is used to emphasize that one's reputation depends equally on individual integrity and how they manage their household.

The fame and the diamond belong to the Ravipati family; the wedding disc and the bead belong to the Pusapati family.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb (sameta) used to describe a perfect match or a balanced distribution of wealth, status, and responsibilities between two families or entities. It highlights how different families have their own unique symbols of prestige—one known for material brilliance and reputation (Ravipati), and the other for marital sanctity and lineage (Pusapati). It is often cited during matrimonial discussions or when comparing the distinct merits of two prominent groups.

It won't be settled unless I give four (slaps).

This expression is used when someone is being stubborn, mischievous, or uncooperative. It implies that the person will only behave or understand the situation if they are physically disciplined or sternly reprimanded. In a broader sense, it means some problems require a 'tough' approach rather than gentle persuasion.

A crop without water, and a person without morning porridge.

This proverb highlights the essential requirements for survival and productivity. Just as a crop cannot grow or yield without a supply of water, a manual laborer or farmer cannot function or stay healthy without their basic morning sustenance (ambali). It emphasizes that ignoring basic needs leads to inevitable failure.

A half-cent widow gets a one-cent haircut.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the cost of a service or a solution far exceeds the value of the object or person being attended to. It highlights extravagance, poor financial planning, or a mismatch between the value of a thing and the expenses incurred upon it.

The madness won't be cured until the marriage happens, and the marriage won't happen until the madness is cured.

This expression describes a classic 'Catch-22' or a circular deadlock situation where two necessary conditions are dependent on each other, making it impossible to resolve either. It is often used to describe bureaucratic hurdles or complex problems where one cannot start without the other, yet neither can move forward.

A mantra without Omkara, wisdom without authority

This expression refers to things that are incomplete or ineffective despite their inherent quality. Just as a mantra is considered spiritually powerless without the 'Om' sound, wisdom or talent is often seen as ineffective or useless in a social or professional context if the person possessing it lacks the authority or position to implement it.

If tamarind trees bloom, it leads to riches; if mango trees bloom, it leads to deaths.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb related to seasonal weather patterns. It suggests that a heavy tamarind bloom indicates a good harvest year (prosperity), whereas an excessive mango bloom often correlates with heatwaves or droughts, which historically led to famines or health issues.