త్రిశంకు స్వర్గం

This expression highlights that true recognition or a title is only valid when it is acknowledged by one's greatest rival or a peer of the highest caliber. It originates from the mythological rivalry where King Vishwamitra performed intense penance to become a Brahmarshi, but his status was only truly validated when his adversary, Sage Vashistha, finally addressed him as one.

* चत्ववेदविदां श्रेष्ठो ब्रह्मवेदविदामपि। ब्रह्मपुत्तो वशिष्ठो मामेवं वदतु देवताः॥

Refers to a state of being stuck in a middle ground or a dilemma where one is neither here nor there. It originates from the mythological story of King Trishanku who was suspended between Earth and Heaven. It is used to describe situations involving uncertainty, being caught between two choices, or being in a state of limbo.

This expression refers to the six fundamental negative traits (Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Mada, Matsarya) that prevent spiritual growth. It is used in philosophical or self-improvement contexts to suggest that true happiness and inner peace are only possible when one masters their own desires and emotions.

This expression suggests that poverty is not a natural state of being but rather a byproduct of social structures, economic systems, and the complexities of human civilization. It is often used in philosophical or sociological discussions to highlight systemic inequalities.

This expression is used to suggest that a problem or an evil force can only be neutralized or countered by something of its own nature or intensity. It is similar to the English proverb 'Fight fire with fire' or 'Like cures like.'

This expression is used to describe a situation where a highly capable or noble person is forced by fate or circumstances to perform menial tasks or occupy a position far below their true stature. It originates from the Mahabharata, referring to the period when the Pandavas lived in exile (Agnathavasam).

This expression highlights that true recognition or a title is only valid when it comes from a peer or a rival who is equally or more qualified. In Hindu mythology, although Vishwamitra performed great penance, he only felt he truly achieved the status of 'Brahmarshi' when his rival, Sage Vashistha, acknowledged him as such. It is used to emphasize that self-praise is no recommendation and validation should come from an authoritative source.

This expression is used to signify that if one's aspirations or goals are successfully realized, it is a sign of great fortune. It is often used when a long-held ambition or a positive vision finally comes true, attributing the success to a blend of destiny and achievement.

This proverb is used to describe a lose-lose situation or a scenario where regardless of the extreme circumstances (too much or too little), the suffering of the common people remains the same. It highlights that both floods and droughts lead to the same result: crop failure and starvation.

This expression is used to describe something that appears to be real or achievable but is actually an illusion or impossible to attain. It refers to hollow promises or imaginary benefits that provide no practical value, much like seeing an offering reflected in a mirror without being able to touch it.