Social Norms

This proverb describes people who resort to extreme sycophancy or humiliating behavior just to earn a living or gain favor. It highlights how some individuals lose their self-respect and do unpleasant or demeaning tasks (symbolized by scratching someone else's sores) to satisfy their hunger or greed.

This proverb is used to warn against the dangers of being overly hesitant, polite, or unable to say 'no' (Mogamatam). It suggests that excessive politeness in situations where one should be firm can lead to disastrous, irreversible, and shameful consequences. It is used to advise someone to be assertive when necessary to protect their own interests.

This is a sarcastic or satirical expression used to describe a person who is perceived as extremely unlucky or bringing misfortune regardless of what they do. It is often used to mock superstitious beliefs or to highlight a 'no-win' situation where every action of a particular person is blamed for a disaster.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a protege, student, or apprentice becomes more skilled, knowledgeable, or successful than their mentor. It is often used as a compliment to both the student's talent and the teacher's effective guidance.

Said of an insolent fellow.

This is a popular Telugu proverb used to emphasize that success and rewards come only through hard work and perseverance. It is often cited to encourage someone who is working towards a goal or to acknowledge that a person's achievement is the result of their own labor.

This phrase is used to describe a situation involving a beggar or someone seeking charity. In a broader idiomatic sense, it often prefaces a proverb or story about the interaction between a giver and a seeker, highlighting attitudes toward charity, entitlement, or poverty.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb referring to the 'Karti' or solar mansions. Makha and Pubba are crucial periods for rainfall in the Telugu calendar. If it doesn't rain during these specific periods, it signifies a severe drought and a total failure of crops for the season.

This proverb highlights that a mother understands her child's true nature, hidden feelings, and secrets better than anyone else because of her close bond. It implies that those who are distant or preoccupied (like the father in the forest) cannot grasp the subtle intricacies of a person's character or situation.

This expression emphasizes that the power of writing and intellectual influence is far more effective and enduring than physical force or violence. It is used to highlight the importance of diplomacy, literature, and legal action over military power.

This is a traditional agricultural observation or proverb related to weather patterns. It suggests that if clouds appear during the lunar month of Margasira (usually occurring in Nov-Dec), it is a precursor to rainfall in the month of Magha (Jan-Feb). It is used to describe predictable seasonal cycles or the relationship between specific weather signs and their eventual outcomes.

This expression is used to signify that regardless of status or how divine or grand a position someone holds, they still have specific, natural requirements or humble necessities. It also suggests that great people have refined tastes or that everything has its own designated place and sustenance in the universe.

This proverb emphasizes that one should deal with equals. Whether you are entering into a conflict (fight) or a family relationship (marriage), the parties involved should be of similar status, strength, or standing for the outcome to be balanced and respectful.

This expression is used as a blessing or a farewell wish when someone is embarking on a journey or a new venture. It emphasizes the importance of both safety (well-being) and success (gain), suggesting that the objective of the trip is only fulfilled if one returns safely after achieving their goal.

This proverb highlights the supreme spiritual significance of Srikalahasti temple. It suggests that while dying in the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi) is traditionally believed to grant liberation, simply visiting or entering the town of Kalahasti is considered even more powerful or auspicious in the local religious tradition.

This proverb is used to highlight that for certain actions or situations, specific preparations or formalities are unnecessary. It is often used to mock someone who is worrying about minor details or appearances when the task at hand is either straightforward or inherently messy/improper.

Without asking, help wouldn’t be forthcoming, even from well-wishers.

This expression is used to describe a cruel or senseless act of sabotage. A 'Chalipandiri' is a booth set up to provide free drinking water to thirsty travelers during summer; throwing stones into those pots breaks them and deprives people of water. It refers to someone causing unnecessary harm to a public good or a charitable cause.

This proverb highlights the loss of self-respect often experienced by a man who moves into his wife's parental home (Illarikam). It suggests that living in poverty or isolation (Mularikam) while maintaining one's dignity is far superior to the dependency and potential humiliation faced when living under the roof of in-laws.

A young, inexperienced man ridiculing an elder one. It is better to learn to respect the elderly and experienced people, and, if possible, learn from their expertise gained over many years.