రజకుని గానము, రండా ప్రభుత్వము

rajakuni ganamu, randa prabhutvamu

Translation

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

Meaning

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.

Related Phrases

The life of an elephant is its trunk, the life of wealth is the woman.

This proverb highlights the vital importance of certain elements to an entity's existence. Just as an elephant depends entirely on its trunk for survival and strength, a household's prosperity (Sri) is believed to reside in and depend upon the character, conduct, and well-being of the woman of the house.

A mother is a divinity, a father a treasure.

This expression emphasizes the supreme importance of parents in one's life. It highlights that a mother provides spiritual and emotional guidance like a deity, while a father provides the material support and security necessary for life.

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

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.

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.

There is no meekness in cows, nor poverty in Brahmans.

This proverb is used to suggest that appearances can be deceiving or that certain social labels are not always what they seem. It implies that cows, while appearing docile, can be unpredictable or aggressive when provoked, and Brahmins, despite traditionally appearing poor or simple, often possess hidden intellectual or social wealth.

* MÉTROY ἐδώρ πίνοντες ἀμέτρως μάζαν ἐδούτες. 2 ( 9 )

Wealth and life are under the Guru's control; the key and the body are under my control.

This proverb satirically describes a person who pretends to surrender everything to a teacher or mentor but remains deeply attached to their physical comforts and material possessions. It is used to mock hypocritical devotion or someone who talks about sacrifice but keeps the most important resources for themselves.

The city of Bharata, the kingdom of Rāma.

This expression refers to a situation where someone is the formal administrator or caretaker (Bharata) while the ultimate authority or glory belongs to someone else (Rama). It is used to describe collaborative success, selfless service, or a scenario where governance is handled on behalf of a rightful leader.

Said of any thing neglected, as Rāma's kingdom was neglected during his absence by his half brother Bharata.

Debt and war are the same.

This proverb highlights the destructive nature of financial debt, comparing it to a battlefield. Just as war brings anxiety, struggle, and potential ruin, being in debt creates constant stress and can destroy one's peace of mind and livelihood.

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.

The one who lacks strength assumes the nature of a saint

This proverb is used to describe a person who pretends to be calm, forgiving, or non-violent only because they are too weak or powerless to retaliate or take action. It highlights how some people mask their inability to act behind a facade of righteousness or saintliness.