తన నీడ తనతోనే ఉంటుంది

tana nida tanatone untundi

Translation

A man's shadow remains with himself.

Meaning

This expression signifies that an individual's character, past actions, or inherent nature will always accompany them, regardless of where they go or how they try to hide. It is often used to describe consequences or traits that are inseparable from a person.

Notes

The fruits of a man's actions go with him whether good or evil.

Related Phrases

The village tells you to leave, the graveyard tells you to come.

This proverb is used to describe someone who is very old and near the end of their life. It signifies that their time in the world of the living (the village) is over, and they are ready for the afterlife or burial ground (the graveyard).

His shadow is his devil. Afraid of his own shadow.

This expression describes a state of extreme guilt, paranoia, or fear where a person is haunted by their own actions. It suggests that when someone has a guilty conscience or is deeply afraid, even their own shadow appears like a threatening spirit, meaning they cannot escape their own mind.

As long as you have a nose, you will have a running from it. Continual liability.

This proverb suggests that as long as a certain entity or situation exists, associated troubles or inherent problems will continue to occur. It is used to describe unavoidable or persistent issues that are tied to one's existence or circumstances.

One's own shadow stays along with them

This expression is used to signify that certain things, like one's past actions, character, or consequences, are inseparable from an individual. It often implies that one cannot escape their own identity or the results of their deeds.

Has the Jemuḍu fruit or shade?

This proverb is used to describe a person who is completely useless or miserly. Just as a cactus neither provides edible fruit nor sufficient shade for a traveler, some individuals possess neither a helpful nature nor resources that benefit others. It is typically applied to people from whom no help or kindness can be expected.

Jemuḍu is the Euphorbia Tirucalli.

A snake's poison is in its fangs. Said of a man ready for any villainy.

This expression is used to describe people who hide their malice or harmful intentions behind their speech or physical features. It suggests that while a snake carries its danger in its fangs, certain individuals carry their 'poison' in their words or specific actions, warning others to be cautious of where the real danger lies.

A tree with leaves provides shade; a mother with a child has milk.

This proverb highlights natural law and the concept of preparedness or provision. Just as it is the inherent nature of a leafy tree to offer shade, a mother is naturally equipped to provide for her child's needs. It is used to describe situations where someone or something is naturally endowed with the resources required to fulfill their purpose or role.

Speaking with the mouth but mocking with the forehead. Insincerity.

This expression is used to describe a person whose facial expressions or non-verbal cues contradict their spoken words. It highlights hypocrisy or insincerity, suggesting that even though someone is saying something polite or agreeable, their true feelings of contempt or disagreement are visible on their face.

Like stepping on one's own shadow.

This expression describes a futile or impossible task. Just as it is impossible for a person to actually step on the head of their own shadow (as the shadow moves with them), it refers to actions that are self-defeating, redundant, or trying to achieve something that is inherently unachievable due to one's own nature or presence.

There is the village and here is my cup. Said by a beggar.

This expression is used to describe a state of complete carelessness, detachment, or having nothing to lose. It implies that as long as there is a society to live in and a basic means to survive (even by begging), one need not worry about responsibilities or property. It is often said by or about people who are wandering or living a carefree, nomadic life without any attachments.