వరపుడి ఇల్లాలౌనా, వాపు బలుపగునా?

varapudi illalauna, vapu balupaguna?

Translation

Can a mistress become a housewife, and can swelling become strength?

Meaning

This proverb highlights the difference between superficial appearance and genuine substance. Just as swelling (edema) is a sign of illness and should not be mistaken for physical strength or healthy weight, a temporary or illicit relationship cannot be equated to the stability and sanctity of a committed marriage. It is used to point out that false appearances or temporary situations cannot replace reality or merit.

Related Phrases

Swelling is not strength, and a branding scar is not beauty.

This proverb warns against mistaking unhealthy or artificial growth for true progress or strength. Just as swelling (edema) might make a limb look larger but actually indicates illness rather than muscle, superficial or temporary gains should not be confused with genuine success or health. It is used to caution people who are proud of hollow achievements.

If the man grows strong, the son becomes powerful.

This expression suggests that a child's success, character, and strength are often built upon the foundation, hard work, and virtues of the father. It is used to imply that the prosperity of the next generation is a direct reflection of the predecessor's efforts.

Mistaking swelling for physical strength.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone mistakes a weakness or a negative symptom for a sign of growth or strength. It serves as a warning against being deceived by superficial appearances or false indicators of success.

If the daughter-in-law is dark-skinned, does the entire lineage become dark?

This proverb is used to criticize the act of judging an entire family or group based on the perceived physical flaws or mistakes of a single individual (specifically a new entrant like a daughter-in-law). It highlights that one person's traits do not define or diminish the status of the whole collective.

Like a pickpocket of Dvârapûḍi. Dvârapûḍi is a notorious village in the Godavery District. ధ.

This expression is used to describe a person who claims to be leaving but stays back indefinitely, or a situation that seems to be ending but keeps dragging on. It originates from a folk story about a gambler who kept saying he would leave once his wick burnt out, but he kept extending it to continue playing.

A golden knife. Said of something of intrinsic value but of no utility.

This expression is used to describe something that is beautiful or attractive but nonetheless harmful or dangerous. Just because a knife is made of gold, it doesn't mean it won't cut; it implies that one should not be deceived by outward elegance when the inherent nature is destructive.

The swelling may subside, but will the branding scars disappear?

This proverb is used to explain that while the immediate pain or visible effects of a mistake or misfortune might fade away, the permanent consequences or the stigma associated with it remain forever. It highlights the lasting nature of certain actions or damages.

Will a harlot's child become a loyal son? Will a flash of lightning become a steady lamp?

This proverb uses metaphors to suggest that certain inherent traits or temporary phenomena cannot be relied upon for long-term stability or legitimacy. Just as a sudden flash of lightning cannot serve as a permanent source of light for a house, things born out of instability or lack of virtue are perceived as unreliable.

If the clouds are black, will the rainwater be black?

This proverb is used to illustrate that the source or external appearance of something does not necessarily define the quality or essence of the outcome. Just as dark clouds produce clear water, a person's humble origins or outward appearance do not dictate their character or the value of their work.

Swelling is not strength - a branding mark is not beauty.

This proverb warns against mistaking appearances or symptoms of problems for genuine quality or strength. Swelling on the body might make a muscle look bigger, but it is a sign of illness, not strength. Similarly, a scar or branding mark shouldn't be confused with natural beauty. It is used to describe situations where something superficial or negative is being misinterpreted as a positive attribute.