ఇల్లు కాలినా ఇల్లాలు చచ్చినా గొల్లు మానదు.

illu kalina illalu chachchina gollu manadu.

Translation

If the house be burnt or the goodwife die, there will cer- tainly be lamentations.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a person who is habitually prone to complaining or creating a ruckus regardless of the circumstances. It suggests that for some people, misery or noisy behavior is a constant trait that doesn't change even in the face of significant disasters or personal loss.

Related Phrases

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.

Can your house be burnt down with hot water?

This proverb is used to imply that small or insignificant actions cannot cause major damage, or that mild threats/anger cannot destroy strong foundations. It suggests that just because water is hot, it doesn't possess the destructive power of fire.

Applied to lenient or ineffective measures.

With hatred, one might burn down a neighbor's house, but one cannot save their own house.

This proverb warns that revenge is a double-edged sword. While one might succeed in harming an enemy out of spite or hatred, the resulting consequences and the cycle of destruction will eventually destroy one's own peace, safety, or assets. It emphasizes that destructive actions intended for others often lead to self-destruction.

Like the burning of a Kômaṭi's house. A heavy loss.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone experiences a significant loss or problem but chooses to remain silent or suffers in secret without crying out for help, usually to avoid revealing their hidden wealth or secrets. It implies a quiet or concealed catastrophe.

The children of the deceased woman are under the feet of the newcomer.

This proverb describes the plight of motherless children who are often neglected or mistreated by a stepmother or a new person entering the household. It is used to highlight situations where vulnerable individuals lose their protection and are left at the mercy of someone who may not care for their well-being.

Like a thorn in the sole of the foot reaching the head.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a minor problem or a person of low status causes a disproportionately large amount of trouble or starts acting superior and arrogant. It signifies how something seemingly insignificant can escalate and become a major headache.

The eyes of one dead, are large (attractive).

The good deeds of the dead are normally praised beyond what they deserve. It is possible that in such remembrances of things past there is likely to be considerable exaggeration – even, falsehood.

Build a small house, and become great. The Hindus consider it unlucky to commence housekeeping in a large house.

This proverb advises financial prudence and modesty. It suggests that one should live in a modest house (within their means) while focusing resources on the growth, prosperity, and well-being of the family members. It emphasizes prioritizing people and life quality over showy material assets.

Calumny is not removed even by death.

This expression is used to describe a deeply ingrained habit, trait, or skill that stays with a person throughout their lifetime. It suggests that once something is learned or becomes part of a person's nature, it is nearly impossible to change or get rid of it.

Slander leaves a slur. Give a dog an ill name, and you may as well hang him.

Even if you dream as if you are dead, you must wake up eventually.

This proverb is used to emphasize that no matter how deep an illusion, an escape, or a terrible situation may be, one must eventually return to reality and face the facts of life. It highlights the inevitability of facing the truth.