పేదలకు చేతనైనది కలలు కనుట మాత్రమే

pedalaku chetanainadi kalalu kanuta matrame

Translation

The only thing poor people can do is dream.

Meaning

This expression reflects the social reality where marginalized or poor individuals often lack the resources or opportunities to change their circumstances, leaving them with only their imagination and aspirations as a form of escape or hope.

Related Phrases

If a woman's breast is soft, or if authority is soft, people will despise it.

This proverb suggests that just as softness is expected in some contexts, in administration or leadership, being too 'soft' or lenient leads to a loss of respect. It implies that a ruler or person in power must be firm to maintain order, otherwise, the subjects or subordinates will disregard their authority.

Can termites infect fire?

This expression is used to state that a person of high integrity, purity, or strength cannot be corrupted or harmed by petty accusations or external evils. Just as termites can destroy wood but are instantly consumed by fire, true virtue remains untouched by malice.

The food in the pot should remain untouched, but the children must grow.

This proverb describes a situation where someone wants to achieve a result without any expenditure or effort. It is used to criticize unrealistic expectations or stinginess, highlighting that you cannot expect growth or progress if you are unwilling to use the necessary resources.

What does it matter to a thief if the field is unripe?

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks responsibility or a sense of ownership. Just as a thief will steal crops regardless of whether they are ready for harvest or if the act ruins the field, an irresponsible or malicious person does not care about the long-term consequences or the damage they cause to others as long as they get what they want.

Seeds must be sown in the right season, even if it is only in a dream.

This proverb emphasizes the critical importance of timing and punctuality. It suggests that certain tasks must be performed during their designated time to be successful. Even if one is unable to do it physically, the intent and preparation should be there, highlighting that missing a seasonal opportunity leads to failure.

Malli for words, Elli for deeds

This proverb describes someone who is very vocal, boastful, or makes grand promises (Malli) but is completely absent or disappears when it comes time to actually do the work (Elli). It is used to criticize people who talk a lot but never follow through with action.

The wound has healed to the extent of an atom, but remains as large as a winnowing basket.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a problem or an ailment has ostensibly 'healed' or been resolved, yet the remaining mark, consequence, or side-effect is still massive and problematic. It highlights cases where the solution hasn't truly diminished the overall burden or visibility of the issue.

The anger of the poor is a danger to their own lips

This proverb implies that when people without power or resources get angry, they cannot harm those they are angry at; instead, they only end up hurting themselves. It is used to describe a situation where expressing frustration is futile or self-destructive due to one's lack of influence.

When bangled hands make a jingling sound, the house shines with prosperity.

This proverb highlights the traditional belief that the presence and active involvement of a woman in a household bring vibrancy, joy, and prosperity. The 'jingling of bangles' symbolizes her work and presence, which is seen as essential for a happy and lively home.

For rains Makha, for dogs Chitta.

This proverb refers to the Indian astrological lunar mansions (Nakshatras). It suggests that the Makha Nakshatra period is known for heavy rainfall, while the Chitta Nakshatra period is associated with the breeding season or increased activity of dogs. It is used to describe the characteristic traits or expected behaviors of specific seasonal periods.