Some unforgettable Gujarati proverbs to get you in a philosophical mood…
- Bakru kaadhata oont pethu
Translation – While driving out a goat a big camel steps in.
Meaning –Out Of frying pan, into the fire.
(Facing bigger problem while solving the small one)
- Mama nu ghar ane Maa pirasnaar
Translation – While you are in your uncle’s place where your own mother is serving you food.
Meaning – Very Favorable Situation
- Bhes Bhaagole, ane chhash chhaagole
Translations – Buffalo is far way and you are imagining churning buttermilk.
Meaning- Counting the chickens before they are hatched
(Expecting Too Much Too Soon)
- Pehlu sukh te jaate naryaa
Translation – Your own good health is the real happiness.
Meaning – One has to be in good health to enjoy goodness of life.
(Often Used By Gandhi Ji)
- Lobhiya hoi tya dhutaara bhukhe naa mare
Translation – Thieves and robbers will never starve where greedy and miser people with lots of money live.
Meaning – Thieves and robbers will thrive, where there are greedy people around.
- Suka bhegu lilu pan bale
Translation – While burning dry grass you may also end up burning green grass.
Meaning – While eliminating bad things, you may somewhat harm good things as well.
- Gharada gaada vaale
Translation – Senior People will successfully lead large group of people. (village saying)
Meaning – Wisdom and experience of Senior People should always be respected.
- Haldar naa gaanthiye gandhi naa thavaay
Translation- With the piece of turmeric, one cannot be gandhi (herbal medicine seller)
Meaning – With little knowledge one cannot be a scholar
- Adhuro ghado chhalkaay ghano
Translation – Half filled vessel will always spill more.
Meaning – Those with little knowledge will brag more and show off.
- Laxmi chandalo karwa aave tyaare kapaal dhova naa javaay
Translation – When Maa Laxmi comes to put Kumkum on your forehead, you should not go to wash the forehead.
Meaning – When opportunity knocks your door, just grab it and not wait for anything.