ముండ పెంచిన బిడ్డ ముగదాడు లేని ఎద్దుతో సమానము.

munda penchina bidda mugadadu leni edduto samanamu.

Translation

A child brought up by a widow is like a bullock without a nose-rope.

Meaning

This proverb suggests that a child raised without proper discipline or parental guidance (traditionally implying the absence of a father figure or a strict guardian in a historical context) will grow up to be uncontrollable and reckless, just as an ox without a nose rope cannot be steered or restrained.

Related Phrases

Food served without affection is equal to the food offered to the dead.

This proverb emphasizes that the hospitality and love behind a meal are more important than the food itself. Even the most delicious food is considered unpalatable or unlucky if it is served with resentment or without heart, comparing it to 'Pinda Kudu' (the ritual food offered to deceased ancestors).

The Begada Raga is equal to the cream of milk.

This is a traditional saying among Carnatic music lovers. It suggests that just as 'Meegada' (cream) is the richest and most delicious part of milk, the 'Begada' raga is exceptionally sweet, soothing, and rich in musical essence. It is used to praise the unique beauty and comforting nature of this specific raga.

A child must be raised by a father or a mother; can a child raised by a mistress become a ruler?

This traditional proverb emphasizes the importance of a proper upbringing, parental guidance, and legitimate social standing in shaping a person's character and future success. It suggests that without the discipline and moral foundation provided by parents, one cannot achieve great heights or leadership roles. It is often used to highlight that a lack of proper mentorship leads to a lack of merit.

Fondling without a child, a flood without rain.

This proverb is used to describe something that is meaningless, artificial, or lacks a foundation. Just as a flood cannot exist without rain and kissing has no purpose without a child (in a parental context), an action or situation without its core essence or cause is considered hollow or futile.

Farming with a bull, family life with a wife.

This proverb highlights the essential elements for success in traditional rural life. It suggests that just as an ox is indispensable for productive agriculture, a cooperative and understanding wife is the foundation for a harmonious and successful domestic life.

A debt that cannot be recovered is equal to a stone.

This expression is used to describe a situation where money lent to someone is unlikely to be repaid. Just as a stone has no value in financial transactions and cannot be changed or utilized, a bad debt is considered a dead asset. It serves as a warning or a philosophical acceptance of a financial loss.

Could a child live in front of devils ?

This expression is used to describe a situation where something fragile, innocent, or valuable is placed in the hands of cruel and heartless people. Just as a child cannot survive amongst demons, a good person or a delicate task cannot thrive or succeed in an environment filled with wicked people or destructive forces.

Born to a sorcerer/diviner, yet equal to a standard camphor lamp.

This expression is used to describe someone who comes from an illustrious or highly skilled background but fails to exhibit any extraordinary talent or greatness themselves. It highlights the irony of having a powerful lineage while remaining mediocre or ordinary in one's own capabilities.

A son raised by a widow is like a bull without a nose ring.

This proverb is used to describe a person who grows up without discipline or a strong guiding authority figure. Just as a bull without a nose rope (mukudaram) is wild and uncontrollable, a child raised without firm guidance or supervision is perceived to grow up stubborn, disobedient, and wayward.

A child without face or posteriors, a song without beginning.

This expression is used to describe something that lacks structure, logic, or a clear purpose. It refers to a situation, story, or task that is disorganized, incoherent, and makes no sense from the start to the end.