పిల్లి లేని ఇంట్లో ఎలుకలు చెలరేగినట్టు

pilli leni intlo elukalu chelareginattu

Translation

Like a grandfather groping for the children in a house where there are none.

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe a situation where subordinates or children behave uncontrollably or misbehave in the absence of an authority figure or supervisor. It is equivalent to the English expression 'When the cat is away, the mice will play.'

Related Phrases

Kicking [a man ] when out of doors and falling at his feet in the house. Disgracing him in public and cringing to him in private.

This expression describes a hypocritical or manipulative behavior where someone insults or harms a person in public (or treats them poorly elsewhere) and then tries to act humble or seek forgiveness in private. It refers to a person who tries to cover up their public misdeeds with private apologies or subservience.

Like saying eat at our house, but wash your hand at yours

This expression describes a person who is extremely stingy or miserly. It refers to someone who is willing to take or consume resources from others but is unwilling to provide even the smallest hospitality (like a little water to wash hands) in return, or someone who avoids any responsibility or cost after enjoying a benefit.

A motherless child is like a curry without onions.

This proverb highlights the essential role of a mother in a child's life. Just as onions are considered a fundamental base that adds flavor and completeness to a dish, a mother's presence is vital for a child's well-being and upbringing. It is used to describe how a home or a child's life feels incomplete or lacks essential care without a mother.

In a neglected house, devils take up their abode.

This proverb suggests that when a place or a situation is neglected or left without proper leadership and supervision, evil or undesirable elements will inevitably move in and take control. It is often used to emphasize the importance of oversight and maintenance in both physical properties and social or political institutions.

Like a grandfather groping around in a house where there is no child.

This proverb is used to describe a situation that is purposeless, lonely, or lacks the intended joy and activity. Just as a grandfather might search for a child to play with in a house where none exists, it signifies efforts made in vain or being in a place that feels empty and devoid of its primary charm or necessity.

In a house with no children, it is said that the old man started crawling like a baby.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone inappropriate or unqualified tries to fill a void or role simply because there is no one else to do it. It highlights the absurdity of an elderly person imitating a child's behavior (crawling) just to provide the entertainment or presence that is missing in a childless home.

Pinching the bottom and then singing a lullaby.

This expression describes a hypocritical or manipulative action where someone intentionally causes harm or distress to another person and then pretends to offer comfort or sympathy. It is often used to call out those who create a problem just to act as the savior later.

Like performing the Shiva dance (Shiva Tandavam) in a pitch-dark room.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is performing a great deal of work or making a lot of effort, but because it is done in secret or without any visibility, no one notices or appreciates it. It can also refer to pointless or chaotic activity that yields no recognition.

In a quarrelsome family not a handful of grain will be left.

This proverb emphasizes that constant internal conflict, bickering, and lack of harmony lead to poverty and the loss of wealth. It suggests that prosperity cannot reside in a place where people are always at odds with each other.

As a dog enters into a house with an open door. Applied to property not watched.

This expression describes someone who enters a place or involves themselves in a matter without permission, hesitation, or respect for boundaries. It is used when an uninvited person takes advantage of a lack of supervision or security to intrude where they don't belong.