పండియు పొల్లు పోయిన పంట

pandiyu pollu poyina panta

Translation

A crop that ripened but turned out to be hollow husks.

Meaning

This expression describes a situation where one puts in immense effort and reaches the final stage of success, only to face total failure or discover that the result is worthless. It is used to describe wasted labor, high expectations leading to disappointment, or a project that fails at the very last moment.

Related Phrases

There is dross in gold, but there is no defect in man.

This expression is used to highlight the inherent value and dignity of a human being. It suggests that while even a precious metal like gold might contain impurities or waste (pollu), a person's life and character should be regarded as invaluable and without waste. It is often used to emphasize human worth over material wealth.

If he says it's Śiva's bull, it is Śiva's bull; if he says it's a pig, it is a pig.

This expression describes extreme sycophancy, blind obedience, or a 'yes-man' attitude. It is used to characterize someone who agrees with everything a powerful person says, even if the statements are contradictory or obviously false, just to please them.

Said of the power of a great and unjust man.

Whether the crop yields or withers, the tax is inevitable.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one's obligations, debts, or taxes must be paid regardless of their personal circumstances or success. It highlights the rigid and often unforgiving nature of certain systems or responsibilities.

Whether it ripens or withers, work is inevitable.

This proverb emphasizes the necessity of labor regardless of the outcome. In an agricultural context, it means whether the crop yields a harvest (ripens) or fails due to drought (withers), the farmer's hard work must continue. It is used to describe situations where one must fulfill their duties and keep working, irrespective of success, failure, or external circumstances.

Gold can become waste (dross), but a human is never waste.

This proverb emphasizes human value over material wealth. It suggests that while physical gold might lose its purity or value, a person's worth, character, and potential are enduring and should never be dismissed as useless. It is used to remind others to treat people with dignity regardless of their financial status.

A fully ripened fruit will fall on its own.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a natural outcome or a result occurs automatically when the time is right, without needing external force. It suggests patience, implying that when a process is complete or a person is mature enough, the transition or consequence will happen naturally.

If Java plums ripen, the lands will flourish.

This is a traditional agricultural observation. It implies that a bountiful harvest of Jamun (Java plum) fruits indicates favorable weather conditions and a good monsoon, which in turn leads to a successful agricultural season and fertile yields across the lands.

If alms are given ten times in an enemy's house, so much the better.

This proverb suggests that one should not expect help or goodwill from an enemy. Even if they appear to give something or help you, it is likely temporary, unreliable, or comes with hidden strings that ultimately result in a loss for you. It emphasizes the importance of self-respect and the futility of depending on those who wish you ill.

A fruit ripened after being plucked. Said of a precocious youth.

This expression is used to describe someone who shows maturity, wisdom, or behaviors far beyond their actual age, often used in the context of a child acting like an adult or being 'precocious'. It can also imply someone who has gained experience or 'ripened' prematurely.

Gold may have impurities, but this person has none.

This expression is used to describe a person of impeccable character and unwavering integrity. It suggests that while even a precious metal like gold might have flaws or dross, the person being referred to is absolutely perfect in their conduct and honesty.