మాఘమాసపు చలి మంటలో పడ్డా తీరదు

maghamasapu chali mantalo padda tiradu

Translation

The cold of Magham month will not end even if you fall into fire.

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe the extreme intensity of the winter cold during the Telugu month of 'Magha' (January-February). It suggests that the chill is so deep-seated that even proximity to a bonfire doesn't provide sufficient relief, often used metaphorically to describe a situation where regular solutions are insufficient for a severe problem.

Related Phrases

A measure in Magha, a basketful in Pubba.

This is an agricultural proverb related to rainfall during specific lunar mansions (Nakshatras). It means that even a small amount of rain during the 'Magha' season is valuable, but heavy rain during the 'Pubba' season is extremely beneficial and results in a bountiful harvest.

Better to sow half a measure in Ashlesha than a full measure in Magha.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb related to timing and the lunar mansions (Nakshatras). It emphasizes that performing a task at the right time (Ashlesha karti) with fewer resources is far more productive than doing it late (Magha karti) with more resources. It highlights the importance of seasonal timing in farming for a better yield.

Like a lizard that fell into milk

This expression describes a situation where a single unpleasant element or unwanted person ruins an otherwise pure, good, or perfect situation. Just as a lizard falling into milk makes the entire container of milk unfit for consumption, this phrase is used when someone's presence or a specific event creates a sense of disgust or spoils the harmony of a gathering.

Rain in the month of Magha is like a woman without a husband.

This proverb describes something that is useless or lacks protection and purpose. Rain during the Hindu month of Magha (late winter) is considered untimely and harmful to crops rather than beneficial. Similarly, the expression historically used the metaphor of a woman without a protector to signify a vulnerable or directionless situation. It is used to describe events that occur at the wrong time and bring more trouble than help.

Like a beetle (lit. a cowdung worm) fallen into a mire pit. Said of a man being in an harassing service from which he cannot escape, &c.

This expression describes someone who is hopelessly stuck in a bad situation or a messy problem. Just as a dung beetle struggles to move in sticky mud, it refers to a person who is struggling in vain or is deeply entangled in complications from which they cannot easily escape.

A rain in the month of Phalgunam spoils ten works.

The month of Phalgunam (usually Feb-March) is the peak harvest season in many regions. This proverb signifies that unexpected rain during this time is detrimental because it ruins the crops ready for harvest, the drying process, and various other agricultural tasks simultaneously.

In the month of Magha, even trees shiver.

This expression is used to describe the peak of the winter season in India. During the lunar month of Magha (typically January-February), the cold is so intense that even sturdy, inanimate objects like trees appear to tremble, implying that the weather is freezing for all living beings.

Forced Magha bath

This expression refers to being compelled or pressured into doing something one is not interested in or ready for. It originates from the ritual of taking a cold water bath early in the morning during the Hindu month of Magha (winter), which can be quite difficult and uncomfortable if forced upon someone.

Clouds in the month of Margasira, rains in the month of Magha.

This is a traditional agricultural observation or proverb related to weather patterns. It suggests that if clouds appear during the lunar month of Margasira (usually occurring in Nov-Dec), it is a precursor to rainfall in the month of Magha (Jan-Feb). It is used to describe predictable seasonal cycles or the relationship between specific weather signs and their eventual outcomes.

The vow to the Goddess is never fully finished; the debt to a sister is never fully repaid.

This proverb highlights the endless nature of certain obligations. Just as one continues to make offerings to the Goddess throughout life, one's responsibilities and gifts toward a sister (or daughter) in a traditional family setup are perpetual and can never be considered 'settled' or 'paid off' completely.