ప్రాణమున్నప్పుడే పంతాలు నెరవేరుతాయి

pranamunnappude pantalu neraverutayi

Translation

Challenges (or vows) are fulfilled only as long as there is life.

Meaning

This expression emphasizes that ego, competition, and the pursuit of goals are only relevant while a person is alive. It is often used as a reminder to prioritize life, health, or harmony over stubbornness and rivalry, suggesting that once life is gone, none of these conflicts matter.

Related Phrases

Lack of skill in speech leads to humiliation and loss of honor.

This expression emphasizes the importance of communication skills. It suggests that if one does not know how to speak appropriately, politely, or effectively, they will inevitably face insults and a loss of dignity in society. It is often used to advise someone to be mindful of their words.

When it was said there is a flaw in the caste, he replied 'I was struck during childhood'

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone gives an irrelevant or trivial personal excuse when a serious, collective, or structural issue is being discussed. It highlights the behavior of people who miss the point of a larger conversation by focusing on their own unrelated petty grievances.

The thought of repaying should exist at the very moment the loan is taken.

This expression emphasizes financial integrity and responsibility. It suggests that one should only borrow money if they have a clear intention and plan to repay it, rather than worrying about repayment only when the deadline approaches. It is used to advise people to be cautious and honest in their financial dealings.

Truth is the life of a word, honor is the life of a woman, and a signature is the life of a document.

This proverb emphasizes the essential quality that gives value or 'life' to certain things. It teaches that a word is only meaningful if it is true, a person's character is defined by their dignity and honor, and a document or letter only gains legal or formal validity through a signature.

Grandfather's wedding is whenever it is thought of

This expression is used to mock someone who wants something to happen instantly or impulsively without considering the necessary preparation, time, or feasibility. It highlights the absurdity of expecting major events to occur just because one suddenly had the idea.

When someone who rarely does anything goes to eat jamun fruits, crimes were pinned on them.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an innocent or inexperienced person tries to do something simple or enjoy a rare treat, but ends up being blamed for something wrong or getting into unexpected trouble. It signifies bad timing or being caught in a streak of misfortune.

Will one's desires be fulfilled by practicing meditation like a crane?

This expression criticizes hypocrisy and fake devotion. A crane stands still on one leg, appearing to be in deep meditation, but it is actually just waiting for a fish to prey upon. It implies that superficial or deceitful focus, driven by hidden selfish motives rather than genuine virtue, will not lead to true success or fulfillment.

If there are rains, there are crops; if not, there are fires.

This proverb highlights the critical importance of rainfall for agriculture. It signifies that timely rains lead to prosperity and food security (crops), whereas a lack of rain leads to drought, starvation, and economic devastation (metaphorically referred to as fires/suffering).

Winnow while the wind blows

This expression emphasizes the importance of seizing an opportunity while it is available. In agricultural terms, farmers winnow grain when there is a breeze to separate the chaff; similarly, one should complete their work while circumstances are favorable. It is the Telugu equivalent of 'Make hay while the sun shines'.

When the pot is struck, the base/support is also struck at the same time.

This proverb is used to describe an immediate and inevitable consequence. Just as the support (kuduru) becomes useless or is discarded the moment the clay pot (kunda) breaks, this expression refers to situations where two things are so closely linked that the end of one automatically results in the end or downfall of the other.