Nuggets of Sholay — Six: Ghoda Ghas Se Dosti Karega Toh Khayega Kya?
Back to muhavras. And this time — the sixth in this series — I’ve picked one that’s profoundly philosophical. It’s not just witty, but quietly teaches us the meaning of life. I’ve also reimagined its origin with a creative twist — hope no one minds!
The Muhavra
Ghoda Ghas Se Dosti Karle Toh Khayega Kya? (घोड़ा घास से दोस्ती करले तो खाएगा क्या?)
This line appears when Basanti drops Jai and Veeru at Thakur Sahab’s house in Ramgarh. Around the 46-minute mark, Veeru offers her ₹2 — the fare agreed upon at the start. But Basanti refuses, saying that while she doesn’t feel like taking money from good men, “if the horse befriends grass, how will it eat?”
On the surface, it’s a reminder that service deserves compensation. But beneath that, it hints at something far deeper — a reflection that echoes through the Bhagavad Gita.
The Hidden Wisdom
Before the great war, Arjuna sees that the opposing army — though an enemy — is filled with people he loves: cousins, elders, teachers, friends. He drops his bow in despair. In response, Krishna reminds him of his dharma — that as a warrior, his duty is to fight for justice. “If the horse befriends grass, how will it survive?” Krishna says in essence — meaning: sentiment must not cloud duty.
Viewed this way, Basanti’s witty proverb and Krishna’s divine counsel share a common truth — that each of us must live our purpose, without emotional confusion about our role in the world.
Samjhe ke nahin? Agar achha laga to comment kijiye. Agar nahin laga to lament kijiye.
Goodbye, aadab and namaste.
Read next: Nuggets of Sholay — Seven: Loha Lohe Ko Kaatta Hai
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