కర్మ ఛండాలుడి కంటే జాతి ఛండాలుడు మేలు.

karma chhandaludi kante jati chhandaludu melu.

Translation

A person who is an outcast by birth is better than one who is an outcast by their actions.

Meaning

This proverb emphasizes that character and behavior are more important than social status or birth. It suggests that someone born into a lower social standing but possessing good character is far superior to someone from a respectable background who commits wicked or immoral acts. It is used to criticize those who behave despicably despite their upbringing.

Related Phrases

Water in a flat rock and a Brahmin's house in a slum do not stay/exist.

This proverb highlights situations that are inherently unsustainable or out of place. Just as water quickly evaporates or drains off a flat, non-porous rock, certain things cannot endure in environments that are fundamentally incompatible with their nature or requirements.

A person born into a marginalized caste is better than a person who commits wicked deeds.

This expression emphasizes that character and actions are more important than birth or social status. It suggests that someone who is socially stigmatized by birth is still superior to a person from a 'higher' status who behaves immorally or performs evil actions. It is used to critique hypocrisy and promote moral integrity over social hierarchy.

If you have support, you can cross mountains.

This proverb emphasizes the power of having backing or support (financial, social, or emotional). It suggests that with the right assistance or a strong foundation, one can overcome even the most formidable obstacles that would be impossible to tackle alone.

A pair is better than being alone

This proverb emphasizes the value of companionship and cooperation. It suggests that two people working together or supporting each other is always better and more effective than a person acting alone. It is often used to encourage marriage, partnership, or teamwork.

A short man having an immeasurable desire for a woman

This expression describes a situation where someone has desires or ambitions that are far beyond their actual capabilities, stature, or resources. It is used to mock unrealistic aspirations or when someone 'aims too high' in a way that seems disproportionate to their reality.

Will the cat faint at the death of the rat ? Indifference.

Used to highlight hypocrisy or fake sympathy. It points out that an enemy or someone who benefits from your misfortune will never truly grieve for you, even if they pretend to. It suggests that certain reactions are unnatural and unbelievable.

Like a pot full of fever nuts (Gachakayalu)

This expression is used to describe a situation or a person that is extremely unstable, noisy, or prone to sudden disruption. Since Gachakayalu (fever nuts) are hard, round, and smooth, a pot filled with them will rattle loudly at the slightest touch and the nuts will easily spill out and scatter everywhere if the pot tips even slightly.

Like a fight between an elephant and a tortoise.

This expression describes a fierce, prolonged, and equally matched struggle or rivalry between two powerful entities. It originates from Hindu mythology where an elephant and a tortoise (who were brothers in a previous life) fight relentlessly. It is used to describe intense competition where neither side easily gives up.

A squint eye is better than a blind eye.

This proverb is used to convey that having something imperfect or partial is better than having nothing at all. It is similar to the English expression 'Half a loaf is better than no bread' or 'Something is better than nothing.'

Of two evils choose the least.

A husband without any looks or charm feels like he is occupying the whole bed.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone or something that lacks value or appeal feels like an overwhelming burden. It highlights how defects or undesirable qualities in a person make their presence feel more intrusive or annoying than it would otherwise be.