తల గొట్టేవానికైనా మూడు మనవులుంటాయి.

tala gottevanikaina mudu manavuluntayi.

Translation

Even a person who is about to behead someone is allowed three requests.

Meaning

This proverb highlights that even in the most dire or final situations, a person should be given a fair chance to speak or be heard. It is used to suggest that everyone deserves basic respect, due process, or a final opportunity to explain themselves before a decision is finalized.

Related Phrases

Humans do not remain, but words stay behind

This expression emphasizes that while human life is temporary and physical presence fades, the words spoken and promises made by a person leave a lasting legacy. It is often used to remind someone that their reputation depends on their speech and that people are remembered by their words long after they are gone.

Whether for a fight, a marriage alliance, or a friendship, there must be equality.

This proverb emphasizes that relationships of any kind—be it conflict, kinship, or friendship—work best between equals. It suggests that individuals or families involved should be of similar status, strength, or character to ensure balance and mutual respect. It is commonly used when discussing suitability in marriages or the fairness of a rivalry.

Walls have ears and shadows have mouths.

This expression is used to advise caution when discussing secrets or sensitive information. It warns that someone might be eavesdropping or that news can spread through unexpected ways, even in seemingly private settings.

An officer has ears, but no eyes.

This expression means that people in power or authority often act based on what they hear (rumors, complaints, or reports from subordinates) rather than observing the truth with their own eyes. It is used to caution that leaders can be easily misled by biased information because they do not verify the facts personally.

Destiny is written based on actions.

This expression means that one's future or fate is determined by their own deeds and conduct. It is used to emphasize personal responsibility and the law of karma, suggesting that if you do good, good things will happen to you in the future.

Whether for a fight or for a marriage alliance, there should be an equal match.

This proverb emphasizes that one should deal with equals. Whether you are entering into a conflict (fight) or a family relationship (marriage), the parties involved should be of similar status, strength, or standing for the outcome to be balanced and respectful.

No matter how great one is, one needs even a parching pan to be on loan.

This proverb highlights human interdependence. It means that no matter how wealthy, powerful, or influential a person is, they will eventually encounter a situation where they need help or a small resource from others. It is used to caution against arrogance and to remind people that everyone needs a community.

Whether for a marriage alliance or for a fight, one should have an equal.

This proverb emphasizes that relationships, whether friendly (like marriage) or hostile (like a feud), are best conducted between people of equal status, strength, or standing. It suggests that a mismatch in such situations leads to imbalance or unnecessary trouble.

Whether for friendship or for a fight, there must be equality.

This proverb emphasizes that relationships, whether friendly or adversarial, are best suited between people of equal status, strength, or standing. It suggests that for a bond to be meaningful or a conflict to be fair, the parties involved should be evenly matched.

Younger brother to the one dying, elder brother to the one being born

This expression describes a person who is in a middle-aged or transitional stage of life. It is often used to refer to someone who is neither too young nor too old, bridging the gap between generations, or someone who is an experienced adult who has seen both the end of one era and the start of another.