పాన్పు చూచి పసరాన్ని కట్టు

panpu chuchi pasaranni kattu

Translation

Look at the mat and then tie the animal.

Meaning

This proverb advises individuals to live within their means and resources. Just as one should tie cattle only after ensuring there is enough fodder or a proper stable (bed), one should manage their expenses or commitments based on their actual capacity and financial situation.

Related Phrases

Look at the mother before choosing the daughter, look at the teeth before buying the cattle.

This proverb advises that one can judge the character, health, and future potential of something by looking at its origins or physical indicators. Just as a mother's traits often reflect in her child, or a cow's teeth indicate its age and health, we should evaluate the background and fundamental health of an entity before making a commitment.

Look at the mother before choosing the daughter, look at the milk yield before choosing the buffalo.

This proverb suggests that characteristics are often inherited or influenced by origins. Just as a buffalo's value is judged by its milk production, a daughter's character and qualities can often be understood by observing her mother. It is used as a piece of advice when considering marriage alliances or evaluating someone based on their upbringing and lineage.

Upon seeing a woman or wealth, even Lord Brahma is afflicted by the rot.

This proverb highlights the power of temptation. It suggests that the lure of beauty (lust) and money (greed) is so strong that it can compromise the integrity or stability of even the most enlightened or divine beings like Brahma. It is used to caution that everyone is susceptible to these worldly distractions.

Give your daughter away after checking the age/compatibility; give the sickle after checking the handle.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of suitability and compatibility in decision-making. Just as a sickle is only useful if its handle fits the hand well, a marriage should only be finalized after ensuring the couple is well-matched in age, status, and character. It serves as a metaphor for performing due diligence before making significant life commitments.

One should sing the song after seeing the mortar.

This proverb emphasizes situational awareness and appropriateness. It suggests that one's actions, words, or efforts should be tailored to the specific circumstances or the tools at hand, similar to the English expression 'To suit the action to the word.'

Look at the mother before you take the daughter; see how much milk the buffalo gives before you buy her.

This proverb suggests that the character and qualities of a person are often inherited or influenced by their upbringing and ancestry. It is commonly used in the context of marriage or forming long-term alliances, implying that observing the parents (background) provides a reliable preview of the individual's nature.

Will a dog with fallen teeth not bite the cattle?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where even if someone has lost their primary power or strength, their basic nature or instincts do not change. Just because a dog is old and toothless, it doesn't mean it won't try to attack or snap at prey. It implies that one should still be cautious of a person's inherent character regardless of their current weakened state.

Applying mascara after seeing the eye; placing a seat after seeing the bird.

This expression refers to performing an action or making a decision based on the specific context, status, or capacity of the person involved. It suggests that one should offer resources, respect, or tasks in proportion to the individual's merit or needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Milch cattle and a small infant are one and the same.

This expression emphasizes that domestic animals (livestock) and infants require the same level of constant care, patience, and attention. Just as a baby cannot express its needs in words, animals also depend entirely on their caretaker for food, comfort, and health, making the responsibility of looking after them equally delicate.

If sown at the right time, even seeds cast in a bush will yield a harvest.

This proverb emphasizes the critical importance of timing and opportunity. It suggests that when the conditions are perfect or the timing is right, success can be achieved even with minimal effort or in less-than-ideal circumstances. It is used to advise someone to wait for the opportune moment before taking action.