గాలి వచ్చినప్పుడే గదా తూర్పార పట్టుకోవలెను

gali vachchinappude gada turpara pattukovalenu

Translation

Is it not when the wind blows that you must winnow ?

Meaning

This is the Telugu equivalent of 'Make hay while the sun shines'. It advises people to seize opportunities when they arise and make the most of favorable circumstances while they last.

Notes

Strike while the iron is hot. Take time while time is, for time will away.

Related Phrases

Impurity (Purudu) at birth.

This phrase refers to the traditional period of ritual impurity observed by a family after a child is born. In a broader philosophical context, it is often paired with 'Chachinappudu sutakam' (ritual impurity at death) to signify that life is bookended by ceremonies and certain constraints, or to imply that every beginning has its own set of initial challenges or obligations.

Winnow the grain only after observing the wind direction.

This proverb advises individuals to act according to the prevailing circumstances or to seize the right opportunity. Just as a farmer waits for the wind to separate chaff from grain, one should evaluate the environment and timing before making a move to ensure success.

Better fall at the feet of the prosecutor than at the feet of the witnesses.

This proverb suggests that instead of trying to influence or persuade intermediaries or witnesses, it is more effective and straightforward to deal directly with the primary person involved in a dispute. It emphasizes that reaching an agreement with the opponent is easier than managing those who are merely testifying.

When there is light, one should set things right in one’s house.

While there is opportunity one must avail oneself of it and make proper arrangements for oneself and the family. It is similar to “make hay while the sun shines.”

They cannot control their devotion, nor can they control their enmity.

This expression is used to describe people who are extreme and impulsive in their emotions. Whether they love someone (devotion) or hate someone (enmity), they go to such extremes that it becomes overwhelming or unmanageable for others around them. It highlights a lack of moderation in temperament.

Winnow the grain while the wind blows.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of making the most of a favorable situation or opportunity while it lasts. It is equivalent to the English expression 'Make hay while the sun shines'.

When you wish for it, I must bring forth a child. Said by a wife to an unreasonable, exacting husband.

This expression is used sarcastically to describe someone who expects instant results or immediate gratification without understanding that certain things take their own natural time. It is often said to people who are impatient and want complex tasks completed instantly.

Winnow while the wind blows

This expression emphasizes the importance of seizing an opportunity while it is available. In agricultural terms, farmers winnow grain when there is a breeze to separate the chaff; similarly, one should complete their work while circumstances are favorable. It is the Telugu equivalent of 'Make hay while the sun shines'.

Should one start making swords only after the battle has begun?

This proverb is used to criticize lack of preparation. It describes the foolishness of trying to acquire necessary tools or skills at the very moment they are needed, rather than being prepared in advance. It is similar to the English expression 'locking the stable door after the horse has bolted' or 'digging a well only when the house is on fire.'

To make swords when the war comes.

This proverb is used to criticize lack of foresight or preparation. It describes a situation where someone starts preparing for a challenge or emergency only when it is already happening, rather than being ready in advance. It is similar to the English expression 'digging a well only when the house is on fire.'