ProverbPedia

“ ആടയുണ്ടെങ്കിലെ കോടയുള്ളു”
English Translation:
Outward dignity and fine appearances exist only if you have the basic clothing. (Prestige and presentation depend entirely on having the foundational means.)

— Malayalam

Related Mantras

“ ഹിരണ്യനാട്ടിൽ ചെന്നാൽ ഹിരണ്യായനമഃ”
English Translation:
When you arrive in the kingdom of Hiranya, chant “Salutations to Hiranya!” (When in Rome, do as the Romans do; adapt to prevailing authority and conform to local customs for safety, however tyrannical they may be.)

“ കട്ടോനെ കാണാഞ്ഞാൽ കണ്ടവനെ പിടിച്ച് കഴുവേറ്റുക”
English Translation:
If the actual thief cannot be found, seize the first bystander and impale him on the stake. (Arbitrary, tyrannical authority that scapegoats innocent people simply to show quick results.)

“ കുട്ടിക്കരി കൂട്ടിവേക്കണ്ടാ”
English Translation:
Do not bother hoarding tiny bits of charcoal. (Do not squander storage and energy saving petty, worthless trifles.)