ప్రజల మాటే ప్రభువు కోట

prajala mate prabhuvu kota

Translation

The word of the people is the ruler's fortress.

Meaning

This proverb highlights the power of democracy and public opinion. It means that a leader's true strength and security lie in the support and will of the people they govern, rather than in physical walls or weapons. It is used to emphasize that a ruler must listen to their subjects to remain successful.

Related Phrases

As the king is, so are the people

This proverb suggests that the character, behavior, and values of a leader are reflected in their subjects or followers. It is used to emphasize that the quality of a community or organization depends on its leadership.

As is the king, so are the people

This expression implies that the character, behavior, and values of the citizens or followers are a reflection of their leader. If the leader is righteous and hardworking, the people will follow suit; if the leader is corrupt, the society tends to follow that path. It is used to emphasize the influence and responsibility of leadership.

Is it a village that I have lived in ? Are the people those with whom I have been intimate ? Said of a strange place.

This proverb is used to describe a person who, despite losing their status, wealth, or health, still retains their pride, arrogance, or core character traits. It implies that a person's fundamental nature remains unchanged even after they have lost their power or resources.

Who is the protector for parched villages? For prosperous (cooked) villages, everyone acts as a lord.

This proverb highlights human nature and opportunism. It means that when a person or a place is in distress or poverty, no one comes forward to help or take responsibility. However, when there is wealth, prosperity, or success, many people swarm around to claim authority, friendship, or leadership.

People fear public opinion more than the fear of sin.

This expression highlights human nature where individuals are often more concerned about their social reputation and what others might say (public shame) than the moral or spiritual consequences of their wrongdoings. It is used to describe situations where social pressure acts as a stronger deterrent than one's own conscience or religious beliefs.

The washerman's song and a widow's rule.

This proverb is used to describe a situation of total chaos, lack of coordination, or mismanagement. Just as a washerman's loud, rhythmic shouting while washing clothes lacks melody, and (historically/metaphorically) a household or state without a proper leader was thought to lack order, this phrase signifies a messy or dysfunctional environment.

Barber's water is better than sacred/chanted water.

This proverb is used to emphasize that practical, tangible solutions are often more effective than rituals or superstitions. In the context of cleaning or physical needs, the water used by a barber (for shaving or washing) has immediate utility, whereas ritualistic water (mantrajalamu) may only have symbolic value.

Is there only one lord for a hunter, or only one husband for a courtesan?

This proverb is used to indicate that certain people or entities cannot be expected to remain loyal to just one master or partner. It suggests that for some, loyalty is flexible or divided among many, often used in a cynical or realistic context regarding politics or professional allegiances.

Without a soldier following him, a lord does not shine.

This expression emphasizes that a leader's greatness or status is validated and enhanced by their followers or subordinates. It is used to suggest that even a powerful person needs the support and presence of others to maintain their image and effectiveness.

A Satani priest's ministry and a weaver lord's constitution.

This proverb is used to describe a situation of total chaos, incompetence, or a lack of coordination where people are handling roles they are not suited for. It signifies a complete mess or 'anarchy' in administration where nothing follows a logical order or established rules.