ఇవతల చెర, అవతల సొర, నడమ రామరాజ్యము.

ivatala chera, avatala sora, nadama ramarajyamu.

Translation

On this side is capture, on that side is sorrow, in the middle is the kingdom of Râma.

Meaning

This expression describes a situation where someone is trapped between two dangerous or difficult extremes, yet manages to find a temporary, peaceful, or ideal state in the middle. It is used to remark on the irony of finding tranquility or 'perfect rule' (Ramajyam) while being surrounded by threats or calamities.

Notes

7

Related Phrases

In Rama's kingdom there is a scarcity of gold, in Bharata's kingdom there is a scarcity of food.

This expression is used to highlight the irony of scarcity in places of abundance or to describe situations where basic needs or expected luxuries are surprisingly unavailable. It often points to poor distribution or specific hardships despite a generally good reputation.

Is there a food shortage in the kingdom of Rama?

This expression is used rhetorically to imply that in a place of great prosperity, abundance, or good governance, basic necessities like food should never be scarce. It is often used when someone expresses a minor need or grievance in a situation where they are otherwise very well-provided for.

Keep the doctor who prescribes branding for all diseases at a distance.

This proverb warns against individuals who suggest the same extreme or painful solution for every problem. It refers to an incompetent or dangerous 'expert' who lacks nuance and relies on crude methods, advising one to avoid such people for their own safety.

The dance is finished, the song is finished, and the fort is now Rama's kingdom.

This expression is used to describe a situation where everything has been settled, peace is restored, or a task has been successfully and completely concluded. It implies a sense of finality and total order, often used after a period of activity or chaos.

Like Râma's kingdom.

This expression is used to describe a place or a period of time characterized by perfect peace, prosperity, justice, and ideal governance. It implies that people are living happily without any troubles, much like the legendary utopian rule of Lord Rama in the epic Ramayana.

Neglected.

The city of Bharata, the kingdom of Rāma.

This expression refers to a situation where someone is the formal administrator or caretaker (Bharata) while the ultimate authority or glory belongs to someone else (Rama). It is used to describe collaborative success, selfless service, or a scenario where governance is handled on behalf of a rightful leader.

Said of any thing neglected, as Rāma's kingdom was neglected during his absence by his half brother Bharata.

Kingdom is to be enjoyed by the brave

This proverb signifies that power, success, and territory belong only to those who are courageous and strong. It is used to encourage boldness and assertiveness, implying that fortune favors the brave and that one must fight for or earn their position through valor.

The dancing is over, the song is finished, and every one is as free as in the kingdom of Râma.

This expression is used to describe a state of completion or total relief. It implies that all tasks, duties, or struggles are finally over, leading to a period of rest, peace, and ultimate satisfaction. It is often used when a long-standing project or a series of chaotic events concludes successfully.

Either that bank or this bank.

This expression is used to describe a 'do or die' situation or a definitive decision where there is no middle ground. It signifies a state of reaching a final outcome, whether it is success on the other side or staying where you are, but ending the state of uncertainty.

The kingdom is meant to be enjoyed by the brave.

This expression is used to signify that power, success, or the fruits of a kingdom belong to those who are courageous and bold enough to win or defend them. It emphasizes that fortune favors the brave and that one must possess strength and valor to attain high positions.