ముగ్గురిని కూల్చెరా ముండదైవం

muggurini kulchera mundadaivam

Translation

The heartless fate has destroyed three people.

Meaning

This expression is used to lament a tragic situation where multiple lives or livelihoods are ruined simultaneously by an act of fate or bad luck. The term 'Munda Daivam' refers to a cruel or widow-like deity/fate that lacks mercy.

Related Phrases

Alas! God has collected three of us. Said by one of a number of helpless people.

This expression refers to the divine trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) or more commonly in a social context, it refers to the destiny or 'unavoidable union' of people or events. It is often used to signify that certain relationships, groups, or life situations are orchestrated by a higher power or fate and cannot be easily undone.

The large pot disappeared in the midst of three. i. e. it could not possibly be carried off from the midst of a number of people without some one perceiving it.

This proverb is used to convey that a secret or a piece of information cannot remain hidden for long when more than two people are involved. It emphasizes that the more people who know a secret, the higher the likelihood of it being leaked or discovered.

The widow who lost everything to a lightning strike still decorated her house with muggu for every small thing.

This proverb describes someone who focuses on trivial matters or maintains unnecessary formalities even after suffering a massive tragedy or facing a total loss. It is used to mock people who do not understand the gravity of a situation and worry about insignificant details instead of focusing on recovery or survival.

If one gives birth to three daughters, even a rich old man will be reduced to nothing.

This traditional proverb reflects the historical socioeconomic burden of the dowry system and wedding expenses in India. It suggests that the financial strain of marrying off three daughters can lead to total poverty, regardless of one's initial wealth or status.

God is the only companion for the poor.

This expression is used to convey that when a person has no wealth, status, or support from society, God is their only protector and source of strength. It highlights the idea of divine providence for the marginalized.

There is no vegetable like the eggplant, and there is no God like Lord Shiva.

This is a popular Telugu saying used to emphasize the excellence or superiority of something. Just as the eggplant (Brinjal) is considered the 'king of vegetables' for its versatility and taste in Telugu cuisine, Lord Shiva is regarded as the supreme deity. It is used to highlight that certain things are incomparable in their respective categories.

Marrying a wife beyond one's means, the fellow perished in misery.

This proverb describes a situation where someone takes on a responsibility, relationship, or luxury that they cannot manage or afford, ultimately leading to their own downfall. It is used to caution against overreaching or entering into commitments that are beyond one's capacity (financial, mental, or social).

The miserable fellow is ruined by his wretched marriage. The folly of being headstrong. Marry in haste and repent at leisure.

This proverb describes a situation where someone takes on a responsibility, commitment, or a partner that is far beyond their capacity, financial status, or control, eventually leading to their downfall or constant suffering. It is used to caution against making life choices (especially marriage or lifestyle) that one cannot sustain or manage.

A stone design and a monkey's design

This expression refers to something that is messy, disorganized, or poorly executed. It compares a drawing or task to a pattern made by a monkey or on rough stone, implying it lacks clarity, beauty, or skill. It is often used to describe bad handwriting or a chaotic situation.

While the seal is still intact, she became a mother of three children.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone claims to have done something impossible or where results have appeared suspiciously fast without the necessary process. It refers to maintaining a facade of innocence or purity (the seal) while the reality (three children) suggests otherwise. It is often used to highlight hypocrisy or blatant lies regarding one's conduct.