ఒక్కడే కొడుకని వరికూడు పెడితే, మీసమిచ్చి మిండగాడయ్యాడట

okkade kodukani varikudu pedite, misamichchi mindagadayyadata

Translation

When a son was fed fine rice because he was the only child, he grew a moustache and became a profligate.

Meaning

This proverb describes the consequences of over-pampering or over-indulging a child. By providing too many luxuries and failing to instill discipline, the child grows up to be spoiled, irresponsible, or rebellious instead of being grateful and productive. It is used to caution against excessive doting that ruins a person's character.

Related Phrases

While she was mourning her husband's death, her lover came and threw stones at her.

This proverb describes a situation where a person is already dealing with a major tragedy or crisis, only to be further harassed or troubled by an insignificant or unwelcome person. It is used to highlight the height of misfortune or the insensitivity of others during a person's most vulnerable moments.

When a starving woman was given stale food, she told the neighbors that her mother-in-law served her a royal feast.

This proverb describes a person who is so deprived or desperate that even the smallest, most insignificant favor feels like a grand gesture. It is used to highlight situations where someone's extreme need makes them overly grateful for something of very low value, or when someone tries to cover up their poor circumstances by glorifying a meager offering.

Seeing her paramour, she said she would jump into the fire pit.

This expression describes a situation where someone performs a dramatic, hypocritical act of devotion or sacrifice only when an audience (specifically someone they want to impress) is watching. It is used to mock fake sincerity or theatrical displays of loyalty that lack true substance.

When lime was applied to improve the color, it resulted in a lump for the mother.

This proverb describes a situation where an attempt to improve something or make it beautiful actually ruins it or makes it worse. It is used when a well-intentioned action results in a complete mess or a loss of original value.

When one hid fearing death, the deity of death came and sat right in front.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone tries to avoid a specific problem or danger, only to find themselves facing an even bigger problem or the exact same fate they were trying to escape. It is similar to the English expression 'Out of the frying pan into the fire.'

A widow's son is a son, a king's son is a son. A king's son and a widow's son are both greatly indulged.

This proverb highlights that fate or luck favors two extremes: either those who have nothing to lose and must work extremely hard (the widow's son) or those who are born with immense privilege (the king's son). It is used to describe how people at the very bottom of the social ladder and the very top often end up being the most successful or influential, albeit for different reasons.

It is not that we don't have the medicine, it's just that there is a shortage of people to shed tears.

This proverb is used to mock someone who makes grand claims about their capabilities or possessions but gives silly, illogical, or impossible excuses for not being able to use them or deliver results. It highlights the absurdity of having a solution but lacking a ridiculous requirement for it to work.

A festival amidst a waste or loss

This expression is used to describe a situation where an unexpected positive event or celebration occurs during a time of significant loss, waste, or overall failure. It highlights an ironic or small consolation in a losing situation.

When a repulsive person opened a shop, the incoming customers turned back immediately.

This proverb is used to describe how a person's unpleasant attitude, appearance, or behavior can drive away opportunities or success. It emphasizes that a positive presentation and welcoming nature are essential for business or social interactions, as a negative personality can repel even those who intended to help or support.

Like a tassel placed in a fixed spot that unfurls and reaches the street

This expression refers to a situation where a secret or a private matter, despite attempts to keep it contained or 'tucked in,' spreads rapidly and becomes public knowledge. It is used to describe how certain information or rumors are impossible to hide once they start leaking out.