కడుపు నిండితే కడవలు మోయలేక పగులగొట్టినట్లు

kadupu nindite kadavalu moyaleka pagulagottinatlu

Translation

Like breaking the pots because one is too full to carry them.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a person who becomes arrogant, lazy, or reckless once their basic needs are met or when they achieve prosperity. It refers to someone who forgets their struggles and destroys the very tools or resources that helped them, simply because they no longer feel the immediate pressure of necessity.

Related Phrases

If a husband is not there, then the elder sister's husband; if a curry is not there, then dal.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone settles for a substitute or an alternative when the original or preferred choice is unavailable. It highlights the human tendency to find a replacement, sometimes even an inappropriate or simplified one, just to fill a void.

Even if one stoops low or acts greedy, the stomach must be filled.

This proverb implies that if one is willing to compromise their dignity, undergo humiliation, or act greedily for a task, the end result should at least be substantial and satisfying enough to justify that compromise. It is used when someone goes through a lot of trouble or loses respect for a very small or insignificant gain.

If you have no common food, [give me] the best; if you have no common cloth, [give me] a silk one.

This is a sarcastic expression used to describe someone who, when they lack basic necessities, demands or expects high-end luxuries instead of seeking practical alternatives. It highlights the irony of having extravagant tastes or unrealistic expectations while being in a state of poverty or deprivation.

Said by an impertinent beggar when refused assistance by a stingy person.

Either Atukuru or Polepalli.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is extremely stubborn, rigid, or lives in extremes. It refers to someone who lacks flexibility and will only consider two specific, often distant or binary options, with no middle ground or compromise in between.

If you can afford it, [ your dress ] should cover your feet; if not, it should cover your knees. Living according to one's means. Cut your coat according to your cloth.

This proverb highlights the struggle and burden of poverty. It means that if a person is well-off, they can walk with strength and dignity. However, if they are poor or lacking resources, they must still find a way to carry their burdens, even if it means struggling on their knees. It is used to describe how people must adapt to their circumstances and continue their efforts regardless of their financial or physical state.

* Anus simia sero quidem,

If it happens, it's castor seeds; if not, it's pigeon peas.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one is prepared for two possible outcomes, often in farming or business. Castor plants grow in low rainfall, while pigeon peas need more rain. It signifies a win-win strategy or a fallback plan where regardless of the circumstances, there will be some form of harvest or benefit.

If it exists, it is a small weeding tool; if not, it is a sickle.

This expression describes the behavior of people who are inconsistent or opportunistic in their relationships. It refers to someone who treats you as a useful friend (small tool) when they need something, but acts sharp or hostile (sickle) when they don't, or someone whose stance changes drastically based on availability and convenience.

If ten are added, it is raw tamarind soup; otherwise, it is spoiled soup.

This expression is used to highlight that a task or project can only be successful if the necessary resources, efforts, or people are involved. Without the essential ingredients or support, the result is worthless or a failure. It emphasizes the importance of adequacy and contribution.

If you eat a bellyful of cakes, [you will get] a bodyful of fever.

This proverb warns about the consequences of overindulgence and greed. It suggests that excessive consumption of heavy or rich food leads to illness and physical suffering. It is used to advise moderation in eating habits and to highlight that momentary pleasure can lead to long-term discomfort.

Either Atukuru or Datukuru.

This expression is used to describe an 'all or nothing' situation or a person with extreme, inconsistent behavior. It refers to someone who either stays completely put in one place (Atukuru) or wanders off far away (Datukuru), lacking a middle ground or moderation.