మంచివాని గుణం మోసం దగ్గర, సత్యవంతుడి గుణం చావు దగ్గర తెలుస్తుంది.

manchivani gunam mosam daggara, satyavantudi gunam chavu daggara telustundi.

Translation

A good person's character is revealed when they are cheated, and a truthful person's character is revealed at the time of death.

Meaning

This proverb explains that true nature is tested during adversity. A truly good person remains virtuous even when betrayed or faced with deceit, and a person committed to truth remains honest even when facing life-threatening situations. It is used to emphasize that integrity is not what one shows in comfort, but what one maintains under pressure.

Related Phrases

Character depends on one's lineage

This proverb suggests that a person's character, behavior, and traits are often influenced by their upbringing, family background, or the environment they are born into. It is typically used to imply that quality or nature is inherent to one's roots.

Clerkship at the threshing floor, lordship at the dining plate.

This proverb describes people who show off their authority or position only where there is a personal benefit or profit. A 'Karanam' (clerk) shows his power at the threshing floor to take his share of grain, and a 'Reddy' (village head) asserts his status at the dining table to get the best food. It is used to mock those who are only 'bossy' when there is something to gain.

One should not be shy or hesitant when it comes to food and business.

This proverb suggests that in certain situations, being overly modest or shy can lead to personal loss. Specifically, when eating (so you get enough to satisfy your hunger) and when conducting business or legal matters (so you ensure your interests are protected), you must be direct and outspoken.

Bargaining for an extra is fine where you purchase, but can you bargain where you begged?

This proverb highlights that one has the right to demand more (kosaru) only when they are paying for a service or product. It is used to point out the lack of modesty or manners in someone who is receiving a favor or gift for free yet continues to demand more or specific preferences.

Whether death approaches or a wife approaches, one loses their mind.

This proverb highlights two extremes where a person loses their rational thinking or common sense: when facing imminent death (due to fear and panic) and when overwhelmed by lust or infatuation. It is used to describe situations where a person acts irrationally under the influence of extreme fear or intense desire.

Good people were sent to good people, and I was sent to you.

This is a witty or self-deprecating expression used to highlight compatibility or a shared level of mischief/character between two people. It implies that just as 'like attracts like' for good people, the speaker and the listener are a perfect match for each other, often used humorously among close friends or partners to acknowledge their shared quirks or flaws.

One's character is revealed after speaking seven words or walking seven steps.

This expression suggests that a person's true nature, integrity, and character can be assessed quite quickly through a brief interaction or a short period of observation. It implies that people cannot hide their true self for long once they start communicating or acting.

The words spoken at the graveyard do not remain at the dinner table.

This proverb highlights the fleeting nature of philosophical realizations or remorse. People often express deep wisdom or regret during somber moments (like a funeral), but quickly return to their usual habits and desires once they are back in the comfort of their daily lives.

The lock is with you, the key is with me.

In Telugu, 'Chevi' can mean both 'ear' and 'key'. This expression refers to a situation where two parties must cooperate because they each hold a vital part of a solution, or more colloquially, it describes a situation where authority or access is divided, preventing any one person from acting independently.

Graze where it is green, sleep where it is warm

This proverb describes a person who is opportunistic or seeking extreme comfort and convenience. It is used to refer to someone who enjoys resources where they are plentiful and seeks shelter where it is most comfortable, often without contributing or showing loyalty. It can also imply living a life of ease and smart survival.