పరుగెత్తుతూ పాలు తాగేకన్నా, నిలుచుండి నీళ్లు తాగడము మేలు.

parugettutu palu tagekanna, niluchundi nillu tagadamu melu.

Translation

It's better to stand and drink water, than to run and drink milk. A comfortable berth with a moderate salary, is better than a bad situation with a larger income.

Meaning

This proverb emphasizes that it is better to do things slowly, safely, and correctly than to rush through something high-value or complex and risk failure. It highlights the importance of stability and patience over a hurried pursuit of success.

Related Phrases

As the person who did the act left, the person standing there was left with water leaking away.

This expression is used to describe a situation where one person commits a mistake or creates a mess and leaves, while an innocent bystander or someone who just happened to be there ends up facing the consequences or blame. It highlights the unfairness of suffering for someone else's actions.

When the son-in-law arrives, even a crooked rope stands up straight.

In traditional Telugu culture, the son-in-law (alludu) is treated with such extreme respect and hospitality that everyone in the household becomes hyper-vigilant and formal. This proverb uses hyperbole to describe how even inanimate objects would straighten up in his presence, signifying the pressure on the bride's family to ensure everything is perfect and orderly when he visits.

Like arguing with a basket.

This expression describes a situation where someone is arguing or talking with a person who doesn't respond or understand, or when an effort is completely futile. Just as arguing with an inanimate basket yields no response or result, it refers to pointless communication with a stubborn or unresponsive person.

The man that has eaten salt drinks water.

This proverb functions as a metaphor for the law of karma and accountability. It means that every action has a consequence, and one must eventually face the results of their deeds. Just as eating salt inevitably leads to thirst, committing an act (especially a wrong or illegal one) will inevitably lead to its natural repercussions or punishment.

Time passes, but the word remains.

This expression emphasizes the lasting impact of one's words compared to the fleeting nature of time. It is used to remind someone to be careful with their speech or promises, as people will remember what was said long after the moment has passed.

The one who drinks water has no stability.

This proverb is used to describe someone who is restless, indecisive, or constantly on the move. Just as a person drinking water from their hands or a vessel might be in a hurry to finish and move on, it refers to a person who lacks patience or a steady nature.

Will the running carts stop if you stretch out your legs?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone tries to stop a powerful or inevitable force with a puny or insignificant effort. It highlights the futility of attempting to block a major event or a trend with inadequate means.

Does a coward who runs away care for women?

This proverb is used to mock those who lack courage or honor. It implies that a person who flees from their responsibilities or a battlefield out of fear is too preoccupied with their own safety to care about dignity, relationships, or the well-being of their loved ones.

If the Guru drink standing, the disciple will drink running. According to Hindu practice, water should always be drunk sitting.

This proverb highlights how students or followers tend to amplify the bad habits or mistakes of their leaders or mentors. If a person in an influential position sets a poor example, those who follow them will likely exceed that bad behavior. It emphasizes the importance of setting a good example for the next generation.

Time will go, an accusation will remain.

This expression emphasizes the permanence and importance of keeping one's promises. While time moves forward and situations change, the words you have spoken and the commitments you have made will be remembered and will define your character long after the moment has passed.