పొట్టివానికి మితిలేని పొలతి వాంఛ

pottivaniki mitileni polati vanchha

Translation

A short man having an immeasurable desire for a woman

Meaning

This expression describes a situation where someone has desires or ambitions that are far beyond their actual capabilities, stature, or resources. It is used to mock unrealistic aspirations or when someone 'aims too high' in a way that seems disproportionate to their reality.

Related Phrases

An unjust man is worse than a monkey.

This proverb is used to highlight that moral values and integrity are what define a human being. Without them, a person's behavior can be more unpredictable or destructive than that of a wild animal, specifically a monkey, which is known for its restless and mischievous nature.

One without a bag gets no alms, one without a pure mind gets no salvation.

This proverb emphasizes that preparation and intention are necessary for results. Just as a beggar cannot receive charity without a container to hold it, a person cannot achieve spiritual liberation or success without the right mindset and sincerity. It is often used to highlight that internal readiness is as important as external effort.

Gruel in a pot for the one in front, and a blow with the ladle for the one behind.

This proverb describes a situation of extreme unfairness or diminishing returns. It is used when those who arrive first or act first get the benefits (even if modest), while those who follow late receive only punishment or the remains. It highlights how timing or position can dictate whether one receives a reward or a reprimand.

A short person has a basketful of brains.

This proverb is used to suggest that what a person lacks in physical stature or height, they often make up for with extreme cleverness, wit, or cunningness. It implies that short people are exceptionally sharp-minded.

For the one who has no way (helpless), whatever is seen is food.

This proverb describes a state of absolute necessity or helplessness. It implies that when a person is in a desperate situation or has no alternatives, they cannot afford to be choosy and must accept whatever is available to them, regardless of quality.

Food served without affection is like funeral offerings.

This expression emphasizes that the hospitality and love behind a meal are more important than the food itself. Food served grudgingly or without warmth is compared to 'Pinda', the ritual food offered to the deceased, which is considered uninviting and devoid of the joy of living hospitality. It is used to highlight that one should not accept or offer food where there is no mutual respect or affection.

A mindless word, a tuneless song.

This expression is used to describe something that lacks sense, logic, or harmony. Just as a song without a proper scale (shruti) is unpleasant to hear, words spoken without thought or intelligence are useless and irritating. It is often used to dismiss nonsensical arguments or irrelevant chatter.

For a man with no resources, a wife with no sense.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one's existing misfortunes are compounded by even more trouble or incompetence. It suggests that when a person is already in a helpless or poor state, they often end up with additional burdens that make their situation worse, rather than better.

A helpless woman will get a foolish husband.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an already difficult or miserable circumstance is made worse by poor companionship or inadequate support. It signifies the misfortune of someone who, being in a vulnerable state, ends up with a partner or resource that is incompetent or useless.

A woman without passion and a horse without speed will not shine.

This proverb highlights that certain entities are defined by their inherent functional qualities. Just as a horse is valued for its ability to run (gati) and move with speed, certain traits are traditionally expected in specific roles for them to be considered successful or effective. It is used to suggest that without essential qualities, things lose their primary purpose or appeal.