కమ్మర వీధిలో సూదులు అమ్మినట్టు

kammara vidhilo sudulu amminattu

Translation

Like selling needles in the blacksmiths' street.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a redundant or futile action where someone tries to sell or explain something to experts who already possess superior knowledge or resources in that specific field. It is similar to the English idiom 'carrying coals to Newcastle'.

Notes

To carry coals to Newcastle.

Related Phrases

Like selling firewood where flowers were sold.

This proverb describes a person who has fallen from a high, prosperous, or prestigious status to a lowly or poor condition. It signifies the misfortune of having to do menial work in the same environment where one previously enjoyed success and respect.

Like searching for hair whorls on a widow's head.

This expression is used to describe a futile or malicious effort to find faults where they cannot exist, or performing a meaningless task. Historically, in certain traditions, widows had their heads shaved; thus, searching for 'sudu' (hair whorls) on a bald head is an impossible and unnecessary act intended only to bother or mock someone.

Cranes in the sky street, thieves in the market street.

This expression is used to describe things that are found in their natural or expected habitat. Just as it is natural to see birds flying in the sky, it is common to find pickpockets or dishonest people in crowded marketplaces. It serves as a reminder to be cautious in specific environments where certain risks are inherent.

Like selling firewood where sandal had been sold. Said of the ruin of what once was beautiful.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone or something has lost its former glory, dignity, or high status. It refers to a decline in quality or a person resorting to menial tasks after having held a prestigious position.

A Sannyâsi's alms in Mussulman street. Not the place for him to go to.

This proverb describes a futile or misplaced effort. It refers to asking for something in a place where it is impossible or highly unlikely to be found due to fundamental differences in customs or beliefs. It is used when someone seeks help or resources from an incompatible source.

Who is it that trusted and ended up being thrown into the middle of the street?

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone who placed their complete trust in another person or system ends up being betrayed, abandoned, or left helpless. It highlights the vulnerability of blind faith and the harsh consequences of broken trust.

Like selling firewood in the same shop where flowers were once sold.

This expression describes a situation where someone who once lived a dignified or prosperous life has now fallen into a lowly or difficult state. It refers to a significant decline in status, quality, or circumstances, comparing the fragrance and beauty of flowers to the ruggedness and toil associated with selling firewood.

Like selling pots in potters' street.

This proverb is used to describe a redundant or futile action where someone tries to sell or teach something to a group of people who are already experts or have an abundance of that specific thing. It highlights a lack of common sense in choosing the right audience for one's skills or goods.

Like trying to sell needles in the blacksmiths' street.

This proverb describes a redundant or futile effort where someone tries to sell something to an expert or a producer who already has an abundance of it. It is used to mock people who try to show off their minor skills or knowledge to true masters of that field.

Conflict at home, aggression in the street

This proverb describes a person who faces constant quarrels or domestic strife at home, and as a result, projects an aggressive, loud, or overly energetic persona in public. It is used to point out that someone's outward bravado often stems from a lack of peace in their private life.