మంచిగా ఉంటే నేను చేశాననుకో, మంచిగా లేకుంటే మావాడు చేశాడనుకో

manchiga unte nenu cheshananuko, manchiga lekunte mavadu cheshadanuko

Translation

If it turns out well, assume I did it; if it doesn't turn out well, assume my guy did it.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a hypocritical or self-serving person who wants to take all the credit for successes but avoids accountability for failures by blaming subordinates or others. It highlights a lack of responsibility and opportunistic behavior.

Related Phrases

When it was said let Achigadu die, it was Buchigadu who died.

This expression is used when a situation turns out contrary to expectations or when an unintended person suffers instead of the one who was supposed to. It highlights irony, bad luck, or the unpredictability of outcomes where the target remains safe but an innocent or different party is affected.

When called a good man, he climbed the bed and urinated!

This proverb is used to describe someone who takes undue advantage of others' kindness or praise. It refers to a situation where a person, being overly indulged or treated with too much leniency, ends up committing a shameless or disrespectful act, losing their sense of boundaries.

If you go to do good, you won't even get drinking water.

This proverb is used to express frustration when a person's good intentions or helpfulness result in bad outcomes, lack of appreciation, or even trouble for themselves. It suggests that in some cynical situations, being virtuous doesn't even yield the most basic reward or gratitude.

When called a good man, he made holes all over the cot.

This proverb describes a situation where someone takes undue advantage of the praise or kindness shown to them. It refers to people who, when trusted or given freedom due to their 'good' reputation, end up causing damage or acting irresponsibly. It is used to caution against blind trust or to describe someone who lacks common sense despite being called 'good'.

What the body does and what the mind does will result in good.

This expression reflects a philosophical or fatalistic outlook, suggesting that whatever happens—whether driven by physical actions or mental intentions—is ultimately for the best or part of a larger destiny. It is often used to provide consolation during unexpected outcomes or to emphasize that things work out for the better in the long run.

One word for a good person, one lash for a good ox.

This proverb highlights that sensible or noble people understand a hint or a single request and act accordingly without needing repeated instructions or force. Similarly, a well-trained or strong ox requires only a single stroke to perform its task. It is used to suggest that intelligent people do not need to be constantly nagged or punished to do the right thing.

There is no one who lived by plowing the wet land or was ruined by working the farm field.

This proverb emphasizes the dignity and reliability of agriculture. It suggests that hard work in farming consistently provides a livelihood and never leads to a person's downfall. It is used to encourage people to trust in honest labor and the fertility of the land.

Buchigadu's hair-knot at Achigadu's wedding

This proverb describes a situation where an irrelevant person tries to act important or gain attention in a place where they have no role. It is used to mock someone who meddles in affairs that do not concern them or someone who tries to steal the spotlight during another person's milestone.

If there are rains, there are crops; if not, there are fires.

This proverb highlights the critical importance of rainfall for agriculture. It signifies that timely rains lead to prosperity and food security (crops), whereas a lack of rain leads to drought, starvation, and economic devastation (metaphorically referred to as fires/suffering).

When he was called a good man, he jumped onto the cot and started leaping.

This expression is used to describe someone who takes undue advantage of others' kindness or praise. It refers to a person who, when treated with respect or leniency, behaves recklessly or exceeds their boundaries due to overconfidence or lack of discipline.