తినలేదు పట్టలేదు బొట్టన్నా పెట్టుకో

tinaledu pattaledu bottanna pettuko

Translation

Neither eaten nor caught, at least wear a bindi/dot.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone has gained no actual benefit or success from their efforts, but still tries to maintain appearances or asks for a small, superficial token of recognition to save face.

Related Phrases

Like saying 'No work, no song, Pattatta, I will even bow to your feet'

This proverb describes a situation where someone is so idle or lacking any productive work that they begin to interfere in others' matters or resort to unnecessary, trivial, or desperate actions just to pass the time. It is used to mock someone who is completely jobless and meddling where they aren't needed.

Neither learned the new, nor forgotten the old.

This expression describes a state of stagnation or lack of progress. It is used to mock someone who is unable to adapt to new changes or learn new skills, while also failing to move on from or effectively use their existing knowledge. It highlights a situation where someone is stuck in limbo, making no advancement.

No effort was put in then, and no worry is felt now.

This proverb describes a state of total negligence or lack of foresight. It is used to describe a person who did not take action or plan during the appropriate time (the past) and consequently feels no regret or concern about the failure in the present. It often implies a sense of indifference toward one's responsibilities.

A forehead full of vermilion is worth ten lakhs.

This traditional expression highlights the auspiciousness and cultural significance of wearing a 'bottu' (bindi/vermilion) on the forehead. It suggests that a person (traditionally a woman) who wears it looks dignified, prosperous, and culturally complete, as if they possess great wealth or value.

Running water does not gather moss.

This proverb suggests that as long as something remains active, functional, or in motion, it stays fresh and free from corruption or stagnation. It is used to emphasize that constant work or movement prevents deterioration, much like how flowing water remains clean while stagnant water becomes foul.

If you give him butter he cannot swallow it, if you give him your finger he cannot bite it.

This expression is used to describe a person who appears extremely innocent, naive, or passive to the point of being helpless or dull-witted. It often refers to someone who lacks the basic initiative or reaction expected in common situations.

As demure as if butter would not melt in his mouth, and yet cheese will not choke him.

No work, no song, stay still and let me straighten your hair.

This proverb describes someone who is idle or has no productive work to do, but tries to look busy by engaging in trivial, unnecessary, or redundant tasks. It is used to mock people who waste time on meaningless activities while ignoring important responsibilities.

There is no counter-song to the song of the Etam.

An 'Etam' is a traditional water-lifting device used in ancient irrigation. The singing associated with this rhythmic labor is unique and continuous. This expression is used to describe something that is incomparable, peerless, or an argument/statement so definitive that there is no possible rebuttal or equivalent response.

If it's not caught by the rope, and not caught by the halter, why bother with the peg?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the main components of a plan or system are missing or failing, making efforts on minor details completely useless. It highlights the absurdity of worrying about insignificant matters when the primary goal is already unachievable.

No dosa on the new moon day, and no sweet dumpling on the full moon day.

This expression describes a situation where someone fails to perform their duties or provide basic necessities even on significant or auspicious occasions. It is used to mock someone who is extremely stingy, negligent, or inconsistent in their hospitality and responsibilities.