मुँह में राम, बगल में छुरी
उस आदमी के मुँह में राम, बगल में छुरी है।
That man is a hypocrite with hidden malice.
A person who appears kind or harmless on the surface but harbors malicious intentions or poses a hidden threat.
उस राजनीतिज्ञ के मुँह में राम, बगल में छुरी है।
That politician is a hypocrite with hidden malice.
उस दोस्त के मुँह में राम, बगल में छुरी है जो तुम्हारे पीछे बात करता है।
That friend is a hypocrite who talks behind your back.
Commonly used to describe people who pretend to be virtuous while secretly planning harm.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
This idiom reflects the cultural emphasis on outward piety and inner sincerity in Indian society. It is often used in moral lessons and storytelling.
Gold Rule
Usage Context
Use this idiom when describing someone who pretends to be kind or virtuous but has harmful intentions. Avoid using it for literal situations involving knives or religious contexts.
Word Origin
This idiom originates from Hindi folklore and religious imagery. 'मुँह में राम' refers to chanting God's name (symbolizing piety), while 'बगल में छुरी' refers to hiding a knife (symbolizing hidden danger). The contrast highlights hypocrisy.
Usage Notes
This idiom is used in both casual and serious contexts to describe people who pretend to be good but have harmful intentions. It is particularly common in discussions about trustworthiness and deception.