తూనీగలాడితే తూమెడు వర్షం

tunigaladite tumedu varsham

Translation

If dragonflies dance, a basketful of rain follows

Meaning

This is a traditional agricultural proverb used to predict weather. It suggests that when dragonflies are seen flying low or in large groups, it is a biological indicator that heavy rain is imminent. 'Tumedu' refers to an old measurement of volume, signifying a large quantity.

Related Phrases

Rain only as much as the lightning

This expression is used to describe a situation where the outcome or result is proportional to the effort or signs shown. It implies that one should not expect a massive result (heavy rain) if the indications or efforts (lightning) are minimal. It is often used to tell someone that they will get exactly what they deserve or what they have worked for, no more and no less.

Rain in the Revati nakshatra is beautiful

This proverb refers to the agricultural significance of the Revati nakshatra (the last lunar mansion). It suggests that rainfall during this period is highly beneficial and pleasant, as it helps in the final stages of crop growth and ensures a bountiful harvest. It is used to highlight the auspicious nature of rain at the right time.

Rains do not stop just because floods might occur.

This proverb conveys that essential natural processes or necessary actions do not stop just because they might lead to some difficulties. It is used to suggest that one should not stop working or progressing out of fear of potential risks or side effects that are beyond their control.

If the crow builds a nest, it's the final rain.

This is a traditional agricultural observation or weather-lore. It suggests that when a crow begins building its nest, it signifies the end of the rainy season or the arrival of the final rains for that cycle. It is used to predict seasonal shifts based on animal behavior.

If the paddy field is ready to be harvested, the rain is great (ironic)

This expression is used to describe an event that happens at the most inconvenient or destructive time possible. Just as rain ruins a crop that is ready for harvest, it refers to a situation where a positive occurrence becomes a disaster due to its timing.

Rain during the Ashlesha nakshatra is beneficial for everyone.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb. It signifies that rainfall during the Ashlesha period (usually late July to early August) is extremely timely and vital for the prosperity of all crops, ultimately benefiting the entire community and economy.

A 'Thumu' measure for the glutton, a 'Manika' measure for the modest woman.

This proverb highlights the difference in consumption and needs based on temperament and lifestyle. A glutton (one who wastes or overeats) requires a large measure (Thumu), whereas a modest and disciplined person is satisfied with a small measure (Manika). It is used to describe how resources are consumed differently depending on one's self-control and character.

Like it rained because the frogs croaked

This expression is used to describe a logical fallacy where someone attributes a natural or inevitable event to a coincidental action. It highlights how people mistakenly claim credit for things that were going to happen anyway, similar to thinking that a frog's croaking actually caused the rain to fall.

If a temple is built nearby, the rain stays far away.

This proverb is used to describe an ironic or counter-productive situation where an action intended for merit or spiritual closeness results in unexpected distance or hardship. It is often used when one's efforts to bring something closer actually push it further away.

Rain during the Swati nakshatra is a joy for the taro plant.

This is a traditional agricultural observation. It signifies that rainfall during the Swati star (an astronomical period occurring in October) is exceptionally beneficial for root crops like Colocasia (taro). It is used to describe a situation where a specific event brings immense benefits to a particular entity.