గుడి దగ్గరైతే గురుత్వం దూరమౌతుంది

gudi daggaraite gurutvam duramautundi

Translation

When the temple is near, the gravity (respect) becomes distant.

Meaning

This proverb highlights the tendency of humans to undervalue things or people that are easily accessible or familiar. It suggests that proximity often leads to a loss of reverence or appreciation, similar to the English expression 'Familiarity breeds contempt.'

Related Phrases

If it is far from the feet, is it far from the eyes?

This expression is used to question why someone would stop caring for or remembering someone/something just because they are no longer physically close or in constant contact. It is similar to the English proverb 'out of sight, out of mind', but used as a challenge to suggest that physical distance should not result in emotional distance or forgetfulness.

If the rider is new, the horse pretends to be lame.

This proverb describes a situation where an experienced subordinate or a clever person takes advantage of a newcomer or an inexperienced boss. It implies that if the person in charge doesn't know what they are doing, those under them will make excuses or behave lazily to avoid work.

One should not be shy or hesitant when it comes to food and business.

This proverb suggests that in certain situations, being overly modest or shy can lead to personal loss. Specifically, when eating (so you get enough to satisfy your hunger) and when conducting business or legal matters (so you ensure your interests are protected), you must be direct and outspoken.

He said 'brother' to the axe blow

This expression describes a situation where someone suddenly becomes humble, respectful, or starts calling an enemy 'brother' only when faced with an immediate, life-threatening danger or severe punishment. It is used to mock people who only show manners or submission when they are under duress.

Whether death approaches or a wife approaches, one loses their mind.

This proverb highlights two extremes where a person loses their rational thinking or common sense: when facing imminent death (due to fear and panic) and when overwhelmed by lust or infatuation. It is used to describe situations where a person acts irrationally under the influence of extreme fear or intense desire.

If a halo forms far around the moon, rain is near; if it forms near, rain is far.

This is a traditional Telugu weather-lore proverb. It suggests that a large, wide halo around the moon indicates immediate rainfall, whereas a tight, small halo indicates that rain is still a long way off. It is used to predict weather based on atmospheric observations.

The words spoken at the graveyard do not remain at the dinner table.

This proverb highlights the fleeting nature of philosophical realizations or remorse. People often express deep wisdom or regret during somber moments (like a funeral), but quickly return to their usual habits and desires once they are back in the comfort of their daily lives.

The lock is with you, the key is with me.

In Telugu, 'Chevi' can mean both 'ear' and 'key'. This expression refers to a situation where two parties must cooperate because they each hold a vital part of a solution, or more colloquially, it describes a situation where authority or access is divided, preventing any one person from acting independently.

If it is far from the feet, is it far from the eyes?

This expression is used to remind someone that even if a person or thing is physically distant (out of reach or out of the house), they are still kept in one's thoughts and memories. It is often used in the context of loved ones living far away, emphasizing that physical distance does not mean they are forgotten.

The village is far, the graveyard is near.

This expression is used to describe someone who is reaching the very end of their life or is extremely old. It signifies that their connection to the living world (the village) is fading, while their transition to death (the graveyard) is imminent.