తల్లిని నమ్మిన వాడు, ధరణిని నమ్మిన వాడు చెడిపోడు

tallini nammina vadu, dharanini nammina vadu chedipodu

Translation

One who trusts his mother and one who trusts the earth (land) will never be ruined.

Meaning

This proverb highlights the reliability of two foundational elements: one's mother and the earth. It suggests that a mother's guidance and love are selfless and protective, while agriculture (or staying rooted to the land) provides a sustainable livelihood. Those who remain loyal to their roots and respect these life-givers will always prosper and never face ultimate downfall.

Related Phrases

Like selling firewood where flowers were sold.

This proverb describes a person who has fallen from a high, prosperous, or prestigious status to a lowly or poor condition. It signifies the misfortune of having to do menial work in the same environment where one previously enjoyed success and respect.

Like selling firewood where sandal had been sold. Said of the ruin of what once was beautiful.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone or something has lost its former glory, dignity, or high status. It refers to a decline in quality or a person resorting to menial tasks after having held a prestigious position.

Even for a great king, only a trusted person must serve food.

This expression emphasizes the paramount importance of trust and loyalty. It suggests that regardless of one's power, wealth, or status, a person is ultimately vulnerable and must rely on those they trust for their basic needs and safety. It is often used to highlight that loyalty is a more valuable asset than authority.

No one has been ruined by trusting an onion or by trusting their mother.

This proverb highlights the immense health benefits of onions and the protective nature of a mother. Just as a mother always looks after her child's well-being, including an onion in one's diet is believed to provide medicinal benefits that safeguard health. It is used to emphasize that some things are inherently reliable and beneficial.

One who trusts his mother and one who trusts the earth will never be ruined.

This proverb emphasizes the virtues of gratitude and hard work. It suggests that a mother's blessing and the rewards of agriculture (cultivating the land) are the most reliable foundations for a successful life. It is used to highlight that devotion to one's parents and an honest living through nature or labor will always provide security and prosperity.

Do not believe what the eye sees, and do not believe what the ear hears.

This proverb advises against jumping to conclusions based on surface-level observations or hearsay. It suggests that one should investigate and verify the truth personally before forming an opinion or making a judgment, as appearances and rumors can often be deceiving.

Like selling firewood in the same shop where flowers were once sold.

This expression describes a situation where someone who once lived a dignified or prosperous life has now fallen into a lowly or difficult state. It refers to a significant decline in status, quality, or circumstances, comparing the fragrance and beauty of flowers to the ruggedness and toil associated with selling firewood.

Those who trust their mother and the earth will never be ruined.

This proverb emphasizes the unwavering reliability and nurturing nature of one's mother and the land (earth). It suggests that respecting and depending on these two fundamental sources of life ensures a person's well-being and success, as they never betray those who believe in them.

If you believe, give; if you have believed, sell.

This proverb highlights the importance of trust and caution in trade and relationships. It suggests that if you trust someone, you can extend credit or give goods, but once a transaction or commitment is made based on that trust, one must ensure it is fulfilled (or sold) to maintain the integrity of the deal.

Calumny is not removed even by death.

This expression is used to describe a deeply ingrained habit, trait, or skill that stays with a person throughout their lifetime. It suggests that once something is learned or becomes part of a person's nature, it is nearly impossible to change or get rid of it.

Slander leaves a slur. Give a dog an ill name, and you may as well hang him.