కార్యం గొప్పా వీర్యం గొప్పా?

karyam goppa viryam goppa?

Translation

Is the business of importance or are the means ?

Meaning

This proverb is used to emphasize that results (the task accomplished) are more important than mere strength or ego. It suggests that one should focus on getting the work done successfully rather than boasting about one's power or status.

Related Phrases

If a hen shakes its wings, a heavy rain is coming.

This is a traditional Telugu folk observation or weather lore. It suggests that when a hen vigorously flaps or shakes its wings to clear dust or feathers, it is an omen of an impending heavy downpour. It is used to describe natural signs that predict future events.

Like accomplishing the Lord's work and one's own work together.

This expression is used to describe a situation where one action or journey serves two purposes simultaneously—typically a duty or service (the Lord's work) and a personal task (one's own work). It is similar to the English idiom 'killing two birds with one stone.'

Is Hanuman's devotion greater, or Rama's form?

This expression is used to highlight a philosophical debate where the depth of devotion (Bhakti) is compared against the divinity of the Godhead (Roopam). It is often used to suggest that the power of a true devotee can sometimes overshadow the fame of the deity they serve, or to point out a situation where choosing between two equally great qualities is impossible.

The groom is sulking in the consummation room!

This expression is used to describe someone who shows anger or throws a tantrum at the most critical or inappropriate moment, especially when their primary objective is already within reach. It highlights the absurdity of being stubborn or demanding when the time is meant for celebration or finalization.

Even if a buffalo is big, can it be equal to an elephant?

This proverb is used to say that size or quantity cannot replace quality or inherent status. Just as a buffalo, no matter how large, cannot match the majesty or strength of an elephant, a common person or thing cannot equal someone or something that is naturally superior or more valuable.

If the paddy field is ready to be harvested, the rain is great (ironic)

This expression is used to describe an event that happens at the most inconvenient or destructive time possible. Just as rain ruins a crop that is ready for harvest, it refers to a situation where a positive occurrence becomes a disaster due to its timing.

Anger is a threat to greatness, and mischief is a threat to dignity.

This proverb highlights how negative traits can destroy one's reputation. It suggests that uncontrolled anger can ruin a person's stature or achievements, while chaotic or mischievous behavior can strip away one's social standing and elegance. It is used to advise people to maintain self-control and decorum to protect their status.

God's work and personal work must happen simultaneously and quickly

This expression is used when a single action or trip serves two purposes: fulfilling an official or spiritual duty while also completing a personal task. It is similar to the English idiom 'killing two birds with one stone', but specifically highlights the balance between duty and self-interest.

Giving even a small copper coin is greatness for kings in this Kali era.

This expression refers to the nature of charity in the current age (Kali Yuga). It suggests that even the smallest act of generosity or the donation of a tiny amount is considered a significant and noble deed, given the rarity of selfless giving among those in power.

Words are not enough to describe the greatness of words.

This expression is used to emphasize that some things are so profound, magnificent, or significant that language itself is insufficient to fully express their value. It is often used when praising someone's eloquence or when describing an overwhelming emotion or situation.