జిల్లేడు పూలకు తుమ్మెద లాశించినట్లు

jilledu pulaku tummeda lashinchinatlu

Translation

Like a black bee desiring the flowers of a Calotropis (Jilledu) plant

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a person who wastefully expects or seeks something valuable from a source that is useless, bitter, or incapable of providing any benefit. In nature, the Jilledu flower does not produce nectar, so a bee searching for honey there is performing a futile action based on a wrong expectation.

Related Phrases

Will Pārijāta flowers grow on a Jillēḍu tree?

This proverb is used to express that good or noble qualities cannot be expected from someone or something that is inherently inferior or bad. Just as a fragrant, divine flower like Parijata cannot grow on a toxic, milky weed like Jilledu (Calotropis), one cannot expect greatness from a base origin or nature.

Pārijāta is the Nyctanthes Arbor Tristis, a very celebrated tree said to grow in Svarga, Indra's paradise (W. Elliot). Jillēḍu is the Calotropes Gigantea.

Will a Calotropis plant bear mangoes?

This expression is used to highlight that one's nature, quality, or output is determined by their origin or character. Just as a toxic or weed-like plant (Jilledu) cannot produce a sweet fruit (Mango), one cannot expect greatness, kindness, or high-quality results from a person or source that lacks those inherent qualities.

Eat the one who saved you, he said.

This expression refers to extreme ingratitude or backstabbing. It describes a situation where someone harms or betrays the person who provided them with protection, help, or a livelihood. It is used to criticize those who bite the hand that feeds them.

Like devouring the one who saved you.

This expression describes extreme ingratitude or betrayal. It is used when someone harms or ruins the very person who helped, supported, or saved them in their time of need.

Like the blooming of the Tangedu flower

This expression is used to describe something that happens in great abundance or a sudden, plentiful appearance of something positive. The Tangedu (Tanner's Cassia) plant is known for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom profusely, covering the landscape. It is often used to describe a sudden stroke of luck or wealth.

If the bumblebees dance, rain is inevitable.

This is a traditional Telugu folk saying based on nature observation. It suggests that certain behaviors in insects, like bumblebees swarming or 'dancing' in a particular way, serve as a natural indicator that rainfall is imminent. It is used to describe predictable outcomes based on specific signs.

Lusting after vomited food.

This proverb is used to describe a person who returns to something they once rejected or discarded with disgust. It highlights a lack of self-respect or dignity when someone seeks out a thing, person, or position they previously deemed worthless or beneath them.

Do jasmine flowers bloom on crown flower plants?

This expression is used to signify that good results or noble qualities cannot be expected from someone who is inherently bad or from a source that is inferior. It is similar to the English proverb 'You cannot gather grapes from thorns'.

Like devouring the one who does not protect.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone who is expected to provide help or protection instead causes harm or destruction. It refers to a betrayal of trust or a scenario where a person's lack of support leads to an even more predatory or damaging outcome.

Are you to devour the man who has protected you ?

This expression is used to convey a sense of loyalty and gratitude. It highlights that one should never harm or betray their benefactor or savior. It is often used to show a commitment to integrity even when facing temptation.

Save a thief from the gallows, and he will be the first to cut your throat.