శత్రుశేషం, రుణశేషం, అగ్నిశేషం, రోగశేషం మిగల్చరాదు

shatrushesham, runashesham, agnishesham, rogashesham migalcharadu

Translation

Remnants of an enemy, debt, fire, and disease should not be left behind.

Meaning

This ancient wisdom advises that four things must be completely eliminated rather than partially dealt with. Even a small remnant of an enemy can seek revenge, a tiny debt can grow into a massive burden due to interest, a single spark can reignite a wildfire, and a lingering disease can recur and become fatal. It is used to emphasize the importance of thoroughness in solving problems to prevent their return.

Related Phrases

The sun's intensity is the poet's inspiration (intensity)

This expression is used to describe a sudden, intense surge of emotion or creative energy. Just as the sun shines with immense heat and brilliance, a poet or an individual can become deeply consumed and driven by a powerful feeling or idea. It is often used to characterize someone who is currently in a state of high emotional fervor or creative 'madness'.

Remains of a debt, of a sore, or of a fire should not be left.

This proverb advises that certain things must be dealt with completely and never left unfinished. Debts (Runam) can grow with interest, wounds (Vranam) can become infected or septic if not fully healed, and fire (Agni) can regrow from a single spark to cause destruction. It is used to suggest that problems should be solved at their root entirely.

Do not leave remnants of fire, debt, enemies, or wounds.

This proverb advises that some things must be dealt with completely and never left unfinished. A small spark can restart a fire; a small unpaid debt can grow; a surviving enemy can return for revenge; and an unhealed wound can become infected. It is used to emphasize the importance of thoroughness in solving problems to prevent them from recurring.

When asked 'Garuda, are you well?', the response was 'Sesha is also well'

This proverb is used to describe a situation where two rivals or enemies are forced to maintain a facade of civility due to their circumstances. It originates from a story where Garuda (the eagle) and Sesha (the serpent) meet; despite being natural enemies, they inquire about each other's well-being because the situation prevents them from fighting. It highlights tactical politeness or a stalemate between powerful opponents.

Remnants of debt, remnants of a wound, and remnants of an enemy should not be left behind.

This proverb advises that certain things must be dealt with completely. Small amounts of unpaid debt can grow into huge burdens; an improperly healed wound can lead to infection or relapse; and a defeated but remaining enemy can rise again to seek revenge. It is used to emphasize the importance of resolving problems or liabilities entirely rather than leaving them half-finished.

There is no country without Tamilians and no village without crows.

This is a popular Telugu saying used to describe the ubiquitous nature of Tamil people. It implies that just as crows are found in every corner of the world, you will find someone from the Tamil community (Arava) living and working everywhere, highlighting their widespread migration and presence.

How can a wonder be born without something special?

This expression is similar to 'There is no smoke without fire.' It suggests that every unusual event, rumor, or surprising news must have some underlying cause or kernel of truth. It is used when someone questions the origin of a strange occurrence or a piece of gossip.

When Seshayya hissed, Garudayya roared.

This expression is used to describe a situation where two individuals are trying to intimidate or outdo each other with empty threats or exaggerated displays of power. It highlights a competitive rivalry where one person's provocation is met with an even louder or more aggressive response, often implying that neither is actually taking action but merely making noise.

Remnants of fire, remnants of a wound, remnants of debt, and remnants of an enemy should not be left.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of complete resolution. It warns that even a small spark of fire can burn down a house, a partially healed wound can become infected again, a small remaining debt can grow through interest, and a defeated but surviving enemy can strike back. One must deal with these four problems thoroughly and leave no trace behind to ensure safety and peace.

Folded steamed dumplings and leftover sweet drinks.

This expression is used to mock someone who makes grand claims about their wealth or status but only offers very humble or leftover items. It highlights the disparity between high-sounding names and the poor quality of the actual items provided.