जिसकी लाठी उसको भैंस
उस गांव में जिसकी लाठी उसकी भैंस है।
In that village, might makes right.
A principle where power or authority determines who gets what, often ignoring fairness or justice.
उस ऑफिस में जिसकी लाठी उसकी कुर्सी है।
In that office, might makes right when it comes to promotions.
गांव में जिसकी लाठी उसकी भैंस वाली बात चल रही है।
In the village, the 'might makes right' mentality is in play.
Often used to describe situations where influence or force overrides fairness or rules.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
This proverb highlights traditional power dynamics in rural India, where physical strength or authority often dictated resource distribution. In modern contexts, it can refer to any situation where influence trumps fairness.
Gold Rule
Usage Scenario
Use this proverb when describing a scenario where someone in power (e.g., a manager, landlord, or influential person) gets preferential treatment simply because of their position, regardless of merit or fairness.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from rural Hindi-speaking communities where livestock (like buffaloes, 'भैंस') were often owned by those who could physically control them using a stick ('लाठी'). Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for power dynamics in society.
Usage Notes
This proverb reflects a cynical view of power structures. It is often used humorously or critically to point out unfair advantages in social, political, or workplace settings.