10 Indian proverbs that will inspire you to study better, smarter, harder

For many centuries, people have turned to India for their spiritual guidance.

19-century German scholar Max Mueller went as far as writing a book about what India taught him. “If I were asked under what sky the human mind has most fully developed some of its choicest gifts, has most deeply pondered on the greatest problems of life, and has found solutions, I should point to India,” said Mueller.

When it comes to offering wisdom, no one does it better than Indian philosophers. From Indian proverbs to quotes, every word and phrase offers lessons about life, love, and loss. 

So, if you are struggling to find motivation, let these inspirational Indian proverbs and quotes provide you with comforting words to face the trials of studying and beyond. 

10 inspirational Indian quotes from famous Indian personalities

Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent ways have made him one of the most influential people in the world. Source: AFP

1. “Be so busy improving yourself that you have no time to criticise others.”

This quote was said by an Indian author, columnist, and YouTuber, Chetan Bhagat. In 2010, he was included in Time magazine’s list of the world’s 100 most influential people. 

His inspirational proverb is significant to students as it reminds them to keep growing as a person and focusing on their self-improvement.

While many will have things to say about your dreams and goals, don’t let that stop you from taking the necessary steps towards reaching your goal.

2. “The future depends on what we do today.”

Mahatma Gandhi is probably one of the most famous Indian personalities. He was known for his efforts that led to the successful campaign for India’s independence from British rule. 

While he has many inspirational quotes, this one focuses on continuously working towards your goal. Many enter university with a plan of how the future will go. However, things don’t always go as planned; it is essential not to give up and continue to take action to shape your future. 

The sheer richness of Indian culture is represented in everything they do — from food to dances and Indian proverbs, there’s much that can be learned and appreciated from them. Source: AFP

3. “Life is like a game of cards. The hand you are dealt is determinism; the way you play, it is free will.”

This is another Indian proverb that can serve as a pick me up to many students to remember that what has happened has already happened. The past cannot be changed, but going forward with a good attitude can shape the future. Despite the setbacks, continue practising and learning as you go to grow.

This quote was said by an Indian anti-colonial nationalist, social democrat, author and political leader, Jawaharal Nehru. 

4. “Remember, no one is stopping you from lighting a lamp in a dark night.”

This proverb by Indian poet and writer Harvinash Rai Bacchan aims to remind people not to lose hope even when faced with challenges, especially in university.

When going through times, it is important to adopt qualities like courage, dedication, and sacrifice to achieve what you want.

Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was a former scientist and served as the 11th president of India. Source: AFP

5. “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”

Former president of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, said this quote reminds people to set clear goals for themselves. This would make it more attainable, and your dreams could become reality.

Dr Kalam was also a recipient of several awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. That, on top of his activeness in teaching, writing, and public service after his presidency, proves that there is no one better to take this piece of advice from. 

6. “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”

Another one by the influential Mahatma Gandhi reminds you to enjoy and cherish every moment in life and to always search to improve your education so that you can grow and inspire others.

As a student, don’t be afraid to live and try new things. Whether it’s picking up a new language, mastering a new hard or soft skill, or giving a new hobby a shot, the world is your oyster. 

You’ll want to keep your eyes on the ball and the goal. Source: AFP

7. “We are kept from our goal not by obstacles but by a clear path to a lesser goal.”

Taken directly from the Bhagavad Gita, one of the holy scriptures of Hinduism, this proverb intends to send a message to dream big. While small goals are equally important, remembering your ultimate goal will help you achieve it and not settle for less.

8. “The power of concentration is the only key to the treasure-house of knowledge.”

Swami Vivekananda was a Hindu monk, philosopher, author, and religious teacher who shared this proverb, reminding everyone that concentration is crucial for success and self-improvement in all aspects of life.

Need help with concentrating while studying? We covered the best music to help you study and focus here.

Some of the best Indian quotes come from the world’s most influential people. Source: AFP

9. “All of us, in a sense, struggle continuously all the time, because we never get what we want. The important thing which I’ve really learned is how do you not give up, because you never succeed in the first attempt.”

This quote, said by none other than India’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, is applicable to everyone no matter where they are in life.

Coming from a man who is the hero in his own rags-to-riches story, this quote is proof that hard work pays off — you just have to keep going.

10. “The fruit of your own hard work is the sweetest.”

If you need just one line to offer the motivation you need to put in the work, this line by actress Deepika Padukone is it.

India’s most successful female celebrity is no stranger to hard work. As a teenager, Padukone played badminton at the national championships but left her sports career to become a fashion model. Years later, she’s one of the wealthiest female Indian celebrities.

Recently, Padukone shared her advice to students on how to manage the stress of exams. She highlighted that it was essential to have clarity in life about what one wants to achieve, and that conviction is important in one’s life, as well as the importance of understanding that life would not always be a “smooth surface.”

“There would be failures,” says Padukone. “The challenge is how you overcome those failures.”

Disclaimer: This article was last updated on February 12, 2025.