వాగు నీళ్ళు, వనం పత్రి.

vagu nillu, vanam patri.

Translation

Stream water, forest leaves.

Meaning

This proverb refers to things that are available freely in nature or acquired without any cost. It is used to describe a situation where someone is being overly generous with resources that do not belong to them or cost them nothing, similar to the English sentiment of 'spending someone else's money.'

Related Phrases

Wild leaves and rainwater.

This expression refers to something that is obtained naturally or for free, without any cost or human effort. It is used to describe a situation where one utilizes resources that are readily available in nature, requiring no investment or obligation.

One should not be hesitant regarding food and business transactions.

This proverb advises that being shy or overly polite in two specific areas—eating and financial/business dealings—can lead to personal loss or dissatisfaction. If you are too shy to ask for food, you stay hungry; if you are too shy to discuss terms or money in business, you face financial losses.

The man that has eaten salt drinks water.

This proverb functions as a metaphor for the law of karma and accountability. It means that every action has a consequence, and one must eventually face the results of their deeds. Just as eating salt inevitably leads to thirst, committing an act (especially a wrong or illegal one) will inevitably lead to its natural repercussions or punishment.

If you strike the 'Bodanam' weed, the 'Rajanam' rice will grow.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of hard work and timely weeding in agriculture. 'Bodanam' is a weed that mimics the appearance of rice plants; if a farmer identifies and removes it diligently, they will yield high-quality 'Rajanam' rice (a superior variety). It is used to suggest that eliminating negative elements or putting in specific effort leads to excellent results.

Manure is not permanent, and a stream is not a companion.

This proverb highlights the temporary nature of certain aids. Just as manure only enriches the soil for a short time and a seasonal stream cannot be relied upon as a permanent water source or a steady path, one should not depend on external or temporary help for long-term stability.

Will the one who planted the tree not water it?

This proverb is used to express faith in divine providence or natural responsibility. It suggests that the creator or the person who initiates a task will also take care of the necessary sustenance and protection. It is often used to reassure someone that God or a guardian will provide for their needs.

Cold water to hot water, hot water to cold water. The beneficial union of different dispositions.

This expression is used to describe mutual assistance or small contributions that complement each other. Just as mixing hot and cold water brings them to a comfortable temperature, it signifies how people help one another according to their capacity, or how small favors are returned to maintain balance in relationships.

Water lies in the low ground.

This proverb suggests that opportunities, wealth, or help naturally gravitate toward those who are humble or those who have a genuine need. It is often used to imply that benefits flow to the deserving and well-prepared, or that good things settle where there is a receptive and grounded environment.

Truth will out at last.

If you take fright at a cupful of water, who will bathe with a boilful?

This proverb is used to mock someone who is hesitant or fearful of a small, minor challenge. It suggests that if a person cannot handle a trivial difficulty, they will never be able to manage much larger responsibilities or hardships.

A worship without sacred leaves, a debt without a written document.

This proverb highlights the importance of necessary prerequisites or evidence. Just as a Hindu ritual (pooja) is considered incomplete without offering sacred leaves (patri), a financial loan (appu) given without a legal document or promissory note (patram) is insecure and lacks validity. It is used to advise someone to ensure proper documentation or to follow essential procedures to ensure a task's success or security.