మదగజపు మిడిసిపాటు మననీయదు

madagajapu midisipatu mananiyadu

Translation

The arrogance of an elephant in rut will not let it live.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe how excessive pride, arrogance, or overconfidence (often compared to a wild elephant's behavior) leads to one's own downfall or prevents one from living a peaceful and stable life. It serves as a warning against egoism.

Related Phrases

It doesn't let you cook and see, and it doesn't stop burning.

This expression is used to describe a problematic, irritable, or difficult person or situation that is constantly bothersome. It refers to a fire that is too smokey to allow cooking but too stubborn to go out, representing a state of constant annoyance that neither resolves nor allows progress.

If a cigar is lit, it won't let you talk.

This expression is used to describe a person who is so self-centered or obsessed with their own activity that they completely ignore others or refuse to engage in conversation. It can also refer to a situation where a small task or habit becomes a distraction that prevents meaningful communication.

The co-wife doesn't let one thrive, and the fishhook doesn't let the bait rise.

This proverb describes a situation where a person is trapped between two obstructive or competing forces that prevent any progress. It is used to express how internal friction or constant interference from others can make it impossible for someone to succeed or move forward in their life or work.

When full, Gundlakamma river doesn't let you reach the shore; when possessed, Gampakamma doesn't let you eat.

This proverb describes two types of misfortune: one caused by natural forces and the other by a miserly nature. It compares the Gundlakamma river, which becomes impassable when flooded, to a stingy person (metaphorically referred to as Gampakamma) who, despite having plenty of wealth or resources, refuses to spend them or allow others to enjoy them.

There is no substitute or remedy for a word that has crossed its limits.

This proverb emphasizes the permanence and impact of spoken words. Once someone says something hurtful or excessive (crossing the boundary of decency or patience), the damage is irreversible. It is used to advise people to think before they speak and to maintain self-control in conversation.

If a short person (or a pigmy) grows horns, they won't let anyone else live in peace.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is naturally mean or troublesome, and who becomes even more arrogant or destructive when they gain a little bit of power or status. It suggests that such individuals use their newfound influence to harass everyone around them.

Cheapness doesn't let you buy; dearness doesn't let you sell.

This proverb describes the irony of human indecisiveness in the market. When prices are very low (cheap), people suspect the quality and hesitate to buy. Conversely, when prices are high (dear), people hesitate to sell because they hope for even higher prices or fear they won't be able to replace the item. It is used to describe a state of perpetual hesitation or missed opportunities.

The stalk of the marigold has many graces.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone or something appears simple or ordinary on the outside but possesses an abundance of inner beauty, charm, or complex qualities. It emphasizes that worth is not always immediate or obvious at first glance.

A person gets no answer when he transgresses the bounds of politeness. A rude speech gets no reply.

This proverb warns that once a person speaks words that exceed the boundaries of decency, respect, or truth, the damage is irreversible. Just as an arrow shot from a bow cannot be taken back, offensive or excessive words cannot be undone or rectified easily. It emphasizes the importance of thinking before speaking and maintaining self-restraint in communication.

* Non puci mal fare a nave rotta.

The Gundlakamma river when full doesn't let you reach the shore; a Gampakamama (miserly person) despite having wealth won't let you eat.

This proverb draws a comparison between a river in flood and a person with a stingy nature. Just as a overflowing river becomes impassable and dangerous, preventing one from reaching safety, a miserly or greedy person, despite possessing abundance, ensures that neither they nor others can enjoy or benefit from those resources.