ఒక వ్యక్తి నీడే ఒక సంస్థ

oka vyakti nide oka samstha

Translation

An institution is the shadow of a single person.

Meaning

This expression signifies that the character, values, and success of an organization are often a direct reflection of its leader's vision and personality. It is used to emphasize the profound impact an individual can have on a collective entity.

Related Phrases

Like the Punganūru state. Punganūru is in the North Arcot District. No government.

Historically referring to the Punganur Zamindari, this expression is used metaphorically in Telugu to describe a person's home or a specific place as if it were a grand, self-contained, or complex kingdom. It is often used sarcastically to mock someone who acts overly entitled or treats their small domain as a royal estate.

Fame follows righteous conduct like its shadow.

This expression emphasizes that when a person lives a life of integrity and follows ethical principles (Neeti), fame and reputation (Keerthi) will naturally follow them without any extra effort, just as a shadow follows an object. It is used to teach that one should focus on their character rather than chasing popularity.

Punganuru province means only for eccentricity

This expression is used to describe someone who is overly fastidious, obsessively traditional, or focuses unnecessarily on minute, trivial rules and rituals (Chadastham). It implies that a particular place or person is synonymous with being difficult or eccentric about petty matters.

The old is a nuisance, the new is a wonder.

This proverb describes the human tendency to quickly get bored with old, familiar things and become easily fascinated by anything new. It is often used to comment on people who abandon traditions or long-term possessions in favor of the latest trends, or when someone loses interest in something they once valued.

Will it rain once for the paddy and separately for the weeds?

This proverb highlights that nature or common benefits do not discriminate between the essential and the non-essential. It is used to explain that certain circumstances or rules apply universally to everyone involved in a situation, regardless of their status or importance.

Being debt-free is a form of wealth.

This proverb emphasizes the peace of mind and financial security that comes from not owing money to anyone. It suggests that even if one doesn't have vast riches, living without debt is a great luxury and success in itself.

Like the only daughter becoming a Basivi (a ritual prostitute/nomadic singer).

This expression is used to describe a situation where the only resource or child available is ruined or rendered useless for the expected purpose. It highlights the tragedy of losing the only hope or support one had to an undesirable path or outcome.

The fingers of the same hand are not all the same.

This proverb is used to emphasize that people, even those from the same family or group, have different personalities, capabilities, and destinies. It is often said to remind others that equality or uniformity should not be expected in human nature or life situations.

Like drinking water from under someone's elbow

This expression is used to describe a state of complete dependence or subservience to someone else. It refers to a person who has no independence and must rely on the whims or 'leftovers' of another person for their survival or progress.

A lamp under a torch

This expression is used to describe a situation where a smaller, less significant thing or person is overshadowed or made redundant by something much larger or superior. It can also refer to something being unnoticeable or unnecessary in the presence of a much greater light or talent.