ఏతాము నేలకు వంగడం లోతునీళ్ళు తేడానికే గదా

etamu nelaku vangadam lotunillu tedanike gada

Translation

The picottah (water-lift) bows down to the ground only to bring up deep water, doesn't it?

Meaning

This proverb suggests that when a great or powerful person humbles themselves or bows down, it is usually for a significant purpose or to achieve a greater goal, rather than a sign of weakness. It is used to explain that strategic humility can lead to beneficial results.

Related Phrases

The Begada Raga is equal to the cream of milk.

This is a traditional saying among Carnatic music lovers. It suggests that just as 'Meegada' (cream) is the richest and most delicious part of milk, the 'Begada' raga is exceptionally sweet, soothing, and rich in musical essence. It is used to praise the unique beauty and comforting nature of this specific raga.

The cattle is judged by the market, the child is judged by the lineage.

This proverb emphasizes the influence of heredity and upbringing. Just as the quality of livestock is determined by where it is bought (the market's reputation), a child's character and behavior are often a reflection of their family's traits, values, and ancestry (Vangadam).

He won't let a wet cloth touch the ground, and he won't let asafoetida fall while bending to the ground.

This proverb is used to describe an extremely stingy or miserly person. It portrays someone who is so cautious about their possessions that they won't even let a damp cloth touch the earth (to prevent loss of moisture) or risk losing a tiny grain of spice while bending down.

A barber's shaving and a washerman's washing.

This expression refers to activities that are done routinely or mechanically without much thought or specialized effort because they are part of one's inherent nature or daily trade. It is used to describe tasks that are performed as a matter of course or things that are inevitable and expected based on a person's role.

He's not worth his food, and is a burden on the earth.

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely lazy or useless. It implies that the person does no productive work, making the food they consume a waste and their presence on earth a literal weight without any contribution.

He is not worth his salt.

A wood apple is very small in an elephant's throat. A very easy matter.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a resource or quantity is completely inadequate for someone's huge appetite or vast requirements. Just as a small wood apple is insignificantly small for a giant elephant, it refers to something being 'like a drop in the ocean' or vanishing instantly without satisfying the need.

Butter won't come out unless the finger is curved.

This proverb is used to say that some tasks cannot be achieved through straightforward or gentle means; one must use a bit of cunning, force, or a change in tactics to get the job done. It is similar to the English expression 'Sometimes you have to play dirty to get what you want'.

There is no house without a pillar, and no house without a quarrel.

This proverb is used to convey that disagreements and minor arguments are a natural, inevitable part of family life. Just as a physical structure needs pillars (pagadamu) for support, human relationships naturally involve friction (jagadamu). It suggests that one should not be overly distressed by small domestic disputes as they are universal.

Hot water added to cold water

This expression is used to describe a situation where two people or things provide mutual support, even if one's contribution is small. It often refers to a husband and wife or partners helping each other to make life more comfortable and manageable, just as mixing hot and cold water results in a pleasant temperature.

A house without coral and a house without a quarrel do not exist.

This proverb highlights that conflict is an inevitable and natural part of family life. Just as it is impossible to find a household without any jewelry or valuables (symbolized by coral), it is equally impossible to find a home where there are no arguments or disagreements among family members. It is used to comfort people facing domestic disputes by reminding them that it is a universal experience.