గజ కచ్ఛప పోరు చందము

gaja kachchhapa poru chandamu

Translation

Like a fight between an elephant and a tortoise.

Meaning

This expression describes a fierce, prolonged, and equally matched struggle or rivalry between two powerful entities. It originates from Hindu mythology where an elephant and a tortoise (who were brothers in a previous life) fight relentlessly. It is used to describe intense competition where neither side easily gives up.

Related Phrases

The silver ring protects from danger; the wick protects from death.

This is an old Telugu saying related to superstitious beliefs and traditional medicine. It suggests that wearing a silver ring (kadi) can ward off accidents or evil eyes, while a medicinal wick or oil lamp (vatti) can prevent death or severe illness. It is used to highlight how small traditional remedies or protective charms are believed to save one from great calamities.

The reputation gained will not leave even after death

This expression emphasizes that once a person earns a certain reputation—whether good or bad—it stays with them for life and remains even after they pass away. It is often used to remind someone that their actions have long-lasting consequences on their legacy.

Like stringing beads. All in harmony.

This expression is used to describe a narration or explanation that is extremely clear, orderly, and detailed. Just as beads are meticulously arranged one by one on a string, it refers to telling a story or presenting facts in a seamless, sequential, and lucid manner.

Like removing a thorn and throwing it on the path.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person tries to solve a problem but ends up causing more harm or trouble. Instead of disposing of a removed thorn safely, throwing it back onto a path where others (or the same person) might step on it again signifies a short-sighted or counterproductive solution.

If you have a mouth, you can win the battle

This expression emphasizes the power of eloquence and communication skills. It suggests that a person who speaks persuasively, boldly, or cleverly can overcome challenges, win arguments, and succeed in difficult situations, even without physical strength.

Will the cat faint at the death of the rat ? Indifference.

Used to highlight hypocrisy or fake sympathy. It points out that an enemy or someone who benefits from your misfortune will never truly grieve for you, even if they pretend to. It suggests that certain reactions are unnatural and unbelievable.

A person who is an outcast by birth is better than one who is an outcast by their actions.

This proverb emphasizes that character and behavior are more important than social status or birth. It suggests that someone born into a lower social standing but possessing good character is far superior to someone from a respectable background who commits wicked or immoral acts. It is used to criticize those who behave despicably despite their upbringing.

Like a pot full of fever nuts (Gachakayalu)

This expression is used to describe a situation or a person that is extremely unstable, noisy, or prone to sudden disruption. Since Gachakayalu (fever nuts) are hard, round, and smooth, a pot filled with them will rattle loudly at the slightest touch and the nuts will easily spill out and scatter everywhere if the pot tips even slightly.

Like a row of houses in Rēpalle. Rēpalle ( or Vrēpalle ) is the Telugu name of Nandavraja, the scene of the youthful exploits of Krishṇa. It was famous for its prosperity according to some—according to others, for the unchastity of its women.

This expression describes a place or a scene that is extremely noisy, crowded, or chaotic, similar to the bustling atmosphere of Repalle during Lord Krishna's childhood. It is used to describe a house or a gathering where everyone is talking at once or there is constant commotion.

Washing protects against calamity.

This proverb highlights the importance of hygiene and cleanliness. It suggests that the simple act of washing (hands, feet, or body) can ward off diseases or 'gandamu' (critical dangers/accidents), implying that being clean prevents many avoidable troubles.