Social Norms

This expression suggests that silence is often a sign of disapproval or lack of interest, rather than agreement. It is used in contexts where someone's quietness indicates that they do not like or consent to a proposal or situation.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone continues to harass or trouble a person even after their relationship or formal connection has ended. It highlights the absurdity of persistent hostility or demands from someone who no longer has a legitimate role or right in a situation.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone is less bothered by the primary hardship or problem itself, but is deeply hurt by the mockery or humiliation they face from peers or others as a result of it. It highlights how social stigma or being looked down upon by equals can be more painful than the actual misfortune.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person's inner feelings, health, or distress are clearly visible through their external appearance or facial expression. It implies that one doesn't need to look deep to find the problem because the signs are obvious.

The face also shows the swelling. Said of a man whose stupidity is shown in his face. In the forehead and the eye, the lecture of the mind doth lie. The countenance is the index of the mind. (Latin.)*

This proverb refers to the final finishing touches that provide completeness or a perfect fit to something. Just as a nose-ring enhances the face and a clasp completes a necklace, it describes the essential finishing element that makes a person or a situation look complete and proper.

This is an old proverb reflecting historical social prejudices. It suggests that associating with certain groups (historically based on caste or occupation) might lead to complications or is unsuitable for one's status. In a modern context, it is used to caution against keeping company with people who have incompatible lifestyles or those who might cause trouble, though it is largely considered outdated due to its discriminatory roots.

This proverb is used to describe someone who maintains a very secretive or private financial status. Just as a merchant's (Shetty) true assets, debts, and accounts are only revealed to the world after they pass away and the books are closed, some people's real situation or character remains a mystery to others during their lifetime.

This is the Telugu version of the famous 'Three Wise Monkeys' principle. It serves as an ethical maxim advising people to lead a virtuous life by avoiding participation in, or exposure to, bad influences, gossip, and negativity.

This expression is used to describe an irrelevant, trivial, or petty interruption during a grand or important event. It highlights the absurdity of focusing on insignificant matters when something significant or sacred is taking place.

This expression is used to describe someone who leaves a place very suddenly, secretly, or without informing anyone. It implies a quiet or abrupt departure where no one was given notice.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a minor or common occurrence is exaggerated into a massive panic or catastrophe. It specifically refers to the fear of drought or seasonal changes during the 'Hasta' rain period. It implies that instead of facing a problem calmly, people create chaos and act impulsively or dramatically.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone deliberately provokes a conflict or starts an argument unnecessarily. It highlights how a person can turn a peaceful inquiry or a normal interaction into a fight by using offensive language or being intentionally rude.

This proverb describes someone who is extremely impatient and expects immediate results right after an action is initiated. It refers to the absurdity of expecting a divine sign or a consequence (like a thunderbolt) the very moment a ritual or task has just begun.

This proverb highlights the gold standard of experiences. It suggests that among all stories, the epic Mahabharata is the most worthwhile to hear, and among all snacks, the Vada is the most delicious to eat. It is used to describe the best or most superior choice in a particular category.

This proverb is used to describe an unwelcome guest or a situation where a rare visit turns into an overstay. It highlights the irony of being overly hospitable to someone who then takes undue advantage of the invitation, making it difficult to get them to leave.

This is a traditional Telugu riddle (podupu katha) where the answer is a 'blouse' (ravika). It describes the function of the garment: during the day, it acts as a barrier for a breastfeeding child, and at night, it is an garment that needs to be removed for intimacy with the husband.

This proverb suggests that in a world full of deceit, being brutally honest may lead to social isolation or lack of support from the community. It is used to describe situations where a person faces difficulties or rejection for being truthful when others prefer comfortable lies.

This proverb is used to describe the tendency of a person to blindly follow the crowd or conform to societal norms regardless of personal opinion or the correctness of the action. It implies going with the flow or following the majority to avoid standing out or facing conflict.

This proverb advises caution in both processing information and sharing it. It suggests that one should exercise skepticism toward rumors or hearsay, and even when one holds a firm belief or knows a truth, it is often wise to remain silent rather than speaking out indiscriminately.

This proverb is used to suggest that true nobility or status is recognized by one's character and actions, rather than outward symbols or religious markers like a sacred thread. It highlights that external appearances do not define inner merit or true leadership.