ఏనుగుల పోట్లాటకు యేట్రింత రాయబారము

Used to describe a situation where a weak or insignificant person attempts to mediate between two powerful parties, often resulting in no one listening to them or the mediation being entirely ineffective. It originates from folklore where a small bird tries to settle a dispute between larger animals or forces.

This expression refers to an unsuccessful, unnecessary, or annoying mediation attempt by someone who lacks the status or capability to resolve a conflict. It is used when an insignificant person tries to intervene in a matter between two powerful parties, often making the situation more complicated or irritating rather than resolving it.

This expression is used to indicate that there is no point in trying to settle a matter through private mediation or secret diplomacy once it has become a matter of public knowledge and debate. It suggests that once a dispute is out in the open, formal negotiations lose their purpose.

This proverb is used to point out the futility of trying to keep something confidential or settle matters through diplomacy once the issue has already become public knowledge or a matter of open debate. It suggests that once a conflict is out in the open, private mediation is no longer effective or relevant.

Refers to a negotiation or mediation effort that is intended to fail or is destined to be unsuccessful. In the Mahabharata, Sanjaya was sent by Dhritarashtra to the Pandavas with a peace proposal that was actually designed to favor the Kauravas and discourage war without offering justice, leading to inevitable failure.

* A fripon fripon et demi,

This proverb contrasts productivity with idleness. It suggests that in a busy, hardworking household, people are occupied with managing their wealth and earnings. Conversely, in a household where people are lazy or unemployed, there is constant quarreling, bickering, and chaos (symbolized by the 'scramble of slippers'). It is used to emphasize that being busy brings prosperity while idleness brings discord.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where innocent or smaller people suffer consequences due to a conflict between two powerful individuals or parties. It highlights how subordinates often become collateral damage in the disputes of their superiors.

This expression is used when someone tries to communicate indirectly or through a messenger even though they are standing right in front of the person they need to talk to. It highlights the absurdity of avoiding direct communication when the opportunity is available.

This expression is used to describe a person of great stature, wealth, or talent who remains superior or significant even during their lowest points or downfall. It suggests that a person's inherent greatness or previous high status still commands respect and is incomparable to the peak level of an ordinary person.

A man much superior to another.

This proverb describes a situation where an insignificant or weak person tries to intervene or mediate in a massive conflict between powerful entities. It highlights the futility and potential danger of someone overstepping their capacity or influence.