Integrity

Welcome the coming, speed the parting guests. Svâgatam signifies literally "well come."—Asîmântam is an abbrevi- ation of Asîmântamanuvrajeyam, "I follow you to the boundary," used to Brahman guests at the conclusion of a Srâddha.

This expression is used to signify a balanced and mature perspective towards relationships or visitors. It implies that while one warmly welcomes newcomers or guests, they also graciously accept and offer good wishes to those who choose to depart, without harborring ill will or desperation.

Do not pick up old habits, do not become a thief to the village.

This is an advisory saying often used to warn someone against repeating past mistakes or returning to a life of dishonesty. It emphasizes maintaining one's reputation and integrity within a community. In a broader sense, it means 'don't revert to your bad old ways and don't betray the trust of those around you'.

True gold does not fear fire.

This proverb is used to say that an honest or virtuous person does not fear scrutiny, tests, or criticism. Just as pure gold is not damaged by fire and instead proves its purity, a person with integrity remains unshaken when faced with trials or investigations.

Practice is a sitting craft

This proverb emphasizes that constant practice leads to mastery. It suggests that any skill can be perfected through repetition and dedication, much like a person sitting down and working consistently at a craft until it becomes second nature.

Having promised, you should not fail; having spoken, you should not lie (retract).

This proverb emphasizes the importance of integrity, honesty, and keeping one's word. It suggests that once you have made a promise (ఆడి) or made a statement (పలికి), you must stand by it and not deviate or lie about it later. It is used to describe a person of high moral character who honors their commitments.

Why bother with the chants of one whose heart is not in it?

This expression emphasizes that any prayer, ritual, or work performed without sincerity or a focused mind is useless. It is used to point out that devotion or effort is meaningless if it lacks genuine intent or concentration.

A committed sin goes away if it is told.

This expression suggests that confessing one's mistakes or sins relieves the burden of guilt and leads to forgiveness. It is used to encourage honesty and transparency after making a mistake, implying that keeping a secret only worsens the moral weight of the action.

One should not claim superiority in an unsuitable place.

This expression is used to advise humility and caution when one is in an unfavorable environment or among strangers where their status or power doesn't hold weight. It suggests that being modest in such situations is a sign of wisdom, rather than a lack of strength.

If you cheat your life, it will then and there ask [ for food ].

This expression highlights the power of conscience. It implies that when a person does something morally wrong or goes against their inner values, their conscience (the soul) will immediately trouble them with guilt. It is used to emphasize that one cannot escape the internal accountability of their own heart.

Will purchased women and colorful sarees make it a divine world?

This proverb suggests that artificial beauty or temporary pleasures (represented by bought company and fancy clothing) cannot provide true spiritual happiness or create a heavenly atmosphere. It highlights that substance, virtue, and genuine relationships are more important than materialistic displays.

Truth alone triumphs

This phrase emphasizes that truth and righteousness will ultimately prevail over falsehood. It is often used as a moral guiding principle to encourage honesty and integrity in all aspects of life, regardless of the challenges faced. It is the national motto of India (Satyameva Jayate).

There is no one who lost what they gave in Thummagunta, and no one who recovered what they gave in Dandigunta.

This is a local proverb from the Nellore district referring to the villages of Thummagunta and Dandigunta. It highlights the distinct reputations of these places—suggesting that people from Thummagunta are exceptionally honest and reliable in returning debts (you never lose your money), whereas people from Dandigunta are notorious for not returning what they owe (you never get your money back). It is used to describe the inherent character or trustworthiness of people from specific backgrounds.

The merchant is there for both what passes and what doesn't pass.

This proverb is used to describe someone who accepts or takes responsibility for everything, regardless of quality or validity. It often refers to a person who is willing to manage or settle matters even when they involve faulty, doubtful, or subpar items/situations, much like a merchant who handles all kinds of goods to keep business moving.

A quiet sage is better than a barking and growling dog.

This proverb is used to convey that a person who is calm, wise, and peaceful (like a yogi) is far superior to someone who is constantly aggressive, loud, or making empty threats (like a barking dog). It emphasizes the value of composure over unnecessary hostility.

Do not take a hold; but once held, do not let go.

This proverb emphasizes commitment and perseverance. It suggests that one should be careful and selective before committing to a task or a goal, but once a decision is made or a responsibility is taken, one should see it through to the end without giving up.

Among men, virtuous men are distinct.

This expression is a famous line from Yogi Vemana's poems. It signifies that while all humans may look alike on the outside, virtuous or noble people stand apart due to their character and actions, just as a swan is distinguished from a crow or a gemstone from common pebbles.

Drink the mother's milk, drink the earth's water, and become a blessed person.

This expression emphasizes the natural progression of life and a person's duty to their roots. It suggests that one is nurtured first by their mother's milk and then sustained by the resources of their motherland. To be 'blessed' or 'successful' (Dhanyudu), one must acknowledge these foundations and live a life that honors both the biological mother and the earth/homeland.

Will a man who steals a brinjal not steal a coconut?

This proverb suggests that a person who commits a small crime or dishonesty is likely to commit a larger one given the opportunity. It emphasizes that a lack of integrity starts small but can escalate, and one's character is judged by even minor actions. It is used to warn people not to trust someone who has a history of even trivial dishonesty.

Good conduct and family life.

This expression highlights that a person's good character (Nalasaramu) and their family/domestic life (Samsaramu) are the two pillars of a respectable existence. It is used to emphasize that one's reputation depends equally on individual integrity and how they manage their household.

Grace to speech, melody to song

This expression emphasizes the essential qualities of communication and art. It suggests that just as a song must be melodious to be enjoyed, speech should be graceful, polite, and meaningful to be effective. It is used to describe someone who speaks beautifully or to highlight the importance of eloquence.