కోతి చేతి పూల దండ

koti cheti pula danda

Translation

A garland of flowers in a monkey's paw.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a situation where a valuable object or a position of responsibility is given to someone who is incapable of understanding its value or doesn't know how to handle it properly, eventually leading to its destruction.

Notes

A good thing thrown away on a stupid person.

Related Phrases

Like a snake in a monkey's paw. Jacko is afraid of it, but won't let it go.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone who is fickle, irresponsible, or lacks judgment is given control over something dangerous or sensitive. Just as a monkey doesn't know how to handle a snake safely—either hurting itself, the snake, or others by swinging it around—giving power or a delicate task to an incompetent person leads to unpredictable and harmful consequences.

A mirror in a woman's hand and a child in a man's hand do not survive.

This is a traditional proverb highlighting gender-stereotypical roles from the past. It suggests that a mirror in a woman's hand will break because she uses it too frequently, and a baby in a man's hand will not thrive because he lacks the natural nurturing patience or skill required for childcare. In modern usage, it is often cited to remark on the lack of care or the inherent risk of mishandling something when it is not in the hands of an 'expert' or 'natural' caretaker.

Today's seed is tomorrow's tree

This proverb emphasizes that small actions, investments, or habits formed today will grow into significant results or consequences in the future. It is commonly used to highlight the importance of childhood education, early investments, or environmental conservation.

Borrowed wealth is a burden, eating sweets brings harm, and if any of it is lost, it leads to debt.

This proverb warns about the dangers of borrowing and the consequences of careless living. It highlights that borrowed money or items are never truly yours and create a psychological or financial burden. Similarly, overindulgence (sweets) leads to health issues. Ultimately, it emphasizes that if borrowed assets are lost or wasted, it results in a cycle of debt and ruin.

Distant hills look smooth.

This proverb is used to describe how things often seem more attractive or better from a distance than they actually are. It suggests that when you are far away from a situation or object, you don't see the flaws, challenges, or rough edges that become apparent only upon closer inspection or involvement.

The oil on the hand being spent

This expression is used when someone has to spend their own hard-earned money or bear a significant personal expense for something, often unexpectedly or as a penalty. It signifies a personal financial loss or 'burning a hole in one's pocket.'

Money in a woman's hand and a child in a man's hand will not stay.

This traditional proverb suggests that wealth held by a woman is quickly spent on household needs, while a man may lack the patience or nurturing skill to keep a child calm or safe for long. It is used to describe roles or situations where resources or responsibilities are perceived to be inherently unstable.

Like a louse in a Jain's hand.

This expression refers to a situation where one is trapped or stuck in a position where they are neither being helped nor let go, leading to prolonged suffering. It originates from the Jain principle of non-violence (Ahimsa), where a Jain might catch a louse but, refusing to kill it, keeps it in their hand, causing discomfort to both.

A daughter-in-law for this word and that word; a dividing wall for this hand's serving and that hand's serving.

This expression describes a person who interferes in every conversation and meddles in every task, effectively becoming a nuisance or an obstacle. It is used to mock someone who is overly talkative, intrusive, or creates unnecessary barriers between people.

Bran-bread from the hand of a mother is better than the five cakes and rich food from the hand of a wife. Pañchabhakshyam are five kinds of cakes.—Paramânnam is a rich dish of rice boiled with milk, sugar, spices, &c.

This proverb emphasizes the incomparable love and comfort associated with a mother's care. It suggests that even the simplest, coarsest food prepared by one's mother is more satisfying and precious than the most luxurious feast prepared by anyone else, including one's spouse. It is used to highlight the deep emotional bond and selfless nature of maternal love.