గొడారివాని వద్ద తోలు ఉన్నట్లు

godarivani vadda tolu unnatlu

Translation

Like having leather at a cobbler's place.

Meaning

This expression describes a situation where something is available in abundance but is often in a state of disorder or not put to proper use for oneself. It refers to a person who has plenty of resources related to their profession but lacks the finished product for their own personal use, or more generally, someone who possesses resources but cannot manage them effectively.

Related Phrases

Like sharing one's joys and sorrows with someone.

This expression refers to the act of confiding in someone, sharing personal experiences, both good and bad. It is often used to describe deep conversations or the bonding that occurs when people share their life's ups and downs with a trusted person.

Like buying leather from a shoemaker. Purchasing at unreasonable prices. The shoemaker buys his leather to make up, not to retail to others.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is overly cautious or suspicious about getting a fair deal. Historically, a cobbler (godari) would know every flaw in the leather, so a customer would be extra wary of being cheated or given inferior scraps. It signifies dealing with an expert in a way that involves extreme scrutiny or hesitation.

An unfit person pairs with a person who has nothing.

This proverb describes the alliance of two individuals who are both lacking in some way—either in character, resources, or capability. It is used to mock an association where neither party can help the other, or to point out that people with negative traits often find common ground with those who have nothing to lose.

Why does the one who doesn't plow need a cloth? Why does the one who cannot rule need a wife?

This proverb highlights the importance of effort and responsibility. It suggests that a person who is unwilling to perform basic labor or fulfill their duties does not deserve the rewards or status that come with them. It is used to mock lazy or incompetent individuals who demand privileges without doing the necessary work.

Why does the one who doesn't plow need grass? Why does the one who doesn't govern need a wife?

This proverb emphasizes accountability and the relationship between responsibility and ownership. It suggests that if a person is unwilling to work or perform the duties associated with a role, they do not deserve the resources or benefits that come with it. It is used to criticize those who want the perks of a position without putting in the necessary effort.

When asked which way, saying Godavari.

This expression describes a situation where someone gives an irrelevant, nonsensical, or rhyming answer to a question instead of providing the actual information requested. It highlights a lack of connection between the question asked and the response given, often used when someone is being evasive or is completely lost in conversation.

An unfriendly person is equal to one that is not.

This expression is used to describe a situation where two people who are equally useless, incapable, or lacking resources join forces. It implies that their partnership will be unproductive because neither has the means or character to succeed or help the other. It is often used to mock an alliance that is destined for failure.

Like buying leather from a cobbler

This expression is used to describe a situation where one attempts to get something from someone who is already in dire need of it themselves, or when one expects a bargain from a person who barely has enough resources to survive. It highlights the irony or futility of seeking a specific resource from a source that is its primary consumer or is impoverished.

When the owner cried for the cow [he had lost,] the shoe- maker cried for the hide.

This proverb describes a situation where one person is mourning a great loss while another person is only interested in how they can selfishly profit from that tragedy. It highlights the contrast between genuine grief and cold-hearted opportunism.

It is an ill wind that blows nobody good.

When asked which way, saying 'Godavari' way.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone gives an irrelevant or nonsensical answer to a specific question, or when there is a complete lack of communication/understanding between two people. It highlights a disconnect where the response has nothing to do with the query.