మోకాలెత్తు విగ్రహముంటే, మొలలోతు కూడు.

mokalettu vigrahamunte, molalotu kudu.

Translation

If the idol is knee-high, the food offered is waist-deep.

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the maintenance or overhead costs significantly exceed the actual value or size of the core object. It suggests that even for a small task or entity, the requirements or expenses involved can be disproportionately large.

Related Phrases

If you sow one type of seed, will a different tree grow?

This expression is equivalent to 'as you sow, so shall you reap'. It highlights that actions have inevitable consequences and the results will always be consistent with the nature of the initial action. It is used to point out that one cannot expect good outcomes from bad deeds or vice-versa.

Planet Saturn

In a literal sense, it refers to the planet Saturn. Figuratively, it is used to describe a person who brings bad luck, constant trouble, or unwanted persistence. It is often used as a slang term for someone who is annoying or whose presence seems to cause obstacles and misery in one's life.

Knees forward, elbows backward

This phrase describes a state of total exhaustion or a frantic struggle where someone is moving in an awkward, desperate manner. It is often used to characterize a person who is running away in fear or working so hard that their body is failing them, highlighting a lack of coordination or dignity due to extreme circumstances.

No matter which planet influences you, anger should not possess you.

This proverb emphasizes emotional control and patience. In Telugu culture, 'Graha' refers to planetary influences believed to cause bad luck or hardships. The saying suggests that even when one is facing extreme misfortune or a 'bad phase' (astrologically speaking), they must not lose their temper, as anger only worsens the situation and leads to further ruin.

When the great idols were begging for alms, the little idols asked for rice and curds.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the primary or most important people are suffering from lack of basic necessities, while those who are secondary or dependent on them are enjoying luxuries. It highlights an irony in the distribution of resources or attention, where the foundation is neglected in favor of the outward display.

Mūlavigrahās are the large idols made of stone which always remain in the temple; the Utsavigrahās are, as the name denotes, the smaller images that are carried in procession. Forwardness. Impertinent demands.

While the main deities are begging for alms, the processional idols are being offered curd rice.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the primary or most important people are suffering from lack of basic needs, while subordinates or secondary entities are enjoying luxuries. It highlights irony in the distribution of resources or attention, where the foundation is neglected in favor of the superficial.

While the main deity is begging for alms, the processional idols are demanding a boat festival.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the main authority or the person responsible for everyone's welfare is struggling for basic survival, yet their subordinates or dependents are demanding luxuries and celebrations. It highlights the irony of people being oblivious to a crisis and making unreasonable demands.

The gaze of Saturn and the grace of Mercury.

This expression is used to describe a situation or a person's temperament where they appear harsh, stern, or critical on the outside (like the perceived malefic influence of Saturn), but possess a kind, helpful, and intellectual heart (like the benefic nature of Mercury). It refers to tough love or a strict mentor who ultimately wishes for one's well-being.

Up the waist in grief, up to the knees in joy.

This expression is used to describe a situation where there is a small amount of relief or joy amidst an overwhelming amount of grief or trouble. It highlights that the positive aspect, though present, is significantly smaller than the hardship being faced.

Stoutness of body, consumption of food. The only advantage of obesity is expensive living.

This proverb is used to describe someone who looks physically strong, healthy, or imposing but is actually incompetent, lazy, or useless when it comes to performing work. It implies that despite their grand appearance (like a large idol), they are a 'waste of food' (the offering) because they don't contribute anything productive.