Time

This expression is used to emphasize that while physical possessions or environments might perish, a person's reputation or legacy (good or bad) is permanent. It highlights that character and name outlive material existence.

This proverb refers to things that are brief and short-lived. A shepherd's sleep is interrupted by the flock, just as a child's kiss is fleeting. It is used to describe tasks or moments that do not last long.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of having a solid foundation and focus in both work (represented by the field/farming) and leisure or external activities (represented by play). It suggests that to be successful, one must ensure their livelihood is secure and their actions are disciplined and steady.

This expression describes a person who is in a middle-aged or transitional stage of life. It is often used to refer to someone who is neither too young nor too old, bridging the gap between generations, or someone who is an experienced adult who has seen both the end of one era and the start of another.

This expression emphasizes that travel broadens the mind and builds character. A person who travels extensively, encounters different cultures, and faces various challenges becomes more worldly, resilient, and courageous compared to someone who stays in one place.

This expression is used to signify that the current bad times or difficult circumstances are temporary and will eventually pass. It is often used as a way to counsel patience or to express hope that a period of injustice or suffering is nearing its end.

This proverb describes a situation that is persistent or continuous, often used to mock something that is supposed to be temporary but never actually ends. If a cold comes twice a year and lasts six months each time, it means the person is sick all year round. It is used to describe perpetual problems, chronic procrastinators, or things that are presented as occasional but are actually constant.

This expression describes something that was extremely short-lived or a situation where a person enjoyed a very brief period of success or life. It refers to the consecutive lunar mansions (Nakshatras) in the Hindu calendar; since Pubba follows Makha immediately, it signifies a very small window of time between the beginning and the end.

This expression is used to remind someone that material offerings, gifts, or acts of formal hospitality are temporary and do not define a lasting relationship. It emphasizes that while one might receive favors or items now, they are not a substitute for permanent support or genuine long-term bonds.

This is a seasonal observation and a traditional saying used to mark a specific point in the agricultural and festive calendar. It implies that during the Pattiseema temple festival (usually occurring around Shivaratri), mango trees are just beginning to fruit, and the buds are tiny. It is used to describe the early stages of a process or to denote the specific timing of an event based on nature's cycle.

This expression is used to describe a person who is lazy or procrastinates during the productive hours (daytime) but rushes frantically at the last minute or during inappropriate times (nighttime) to finish the task. It mocks poor time management and inefficiency.

This expression is the Telugu equivalent of 'no use crying over spilled milk.' It suggests that once something has happened, worrying or crying about it is futile; instead, one should focus on the future or find a solution.

This is a sarcastic or mocking expression used when someone arrives extremely late for a task or event, particularly when everything is already finished or the opportunity has passed. It highlights the irony of a person showing up 'ready' to lead or participate just as the curtains are closing.

This was a clever speech of the maid servant of a proud but poor Velama to conceal the poverty of her master before visitors; the three kinds of food being the three divisions of the palmyra fruit, and the phrase used regarding the lamps being also susceptible of the meaning " The straw torch has burnt to the knot" i. e. to the end. You can't fare well, but you must cry roast-meat.

This expression describes something that starts small or thin but grows rapidly and extensively, much like the delicate-looking but fast-growing tamarind shoots. It is often used to refer to a person who was once thin or small but has suddenly grown tall or become very active and successful.

Slow and sure.

This proverb highlights the contrast between the time and effort taken to create something versus how easily it can be destroyed. It is used to describe situations where long-term hard work is undone in a single moment of misfortune or a single careless act.

This proverb is used to warn someone against momentary indulgence or short-term gratification that leads to long-term suffering, debt, or negative consequences. It emphasizes the importance of foresight and self-control.

This expression refers to the end of a long day when everyone, regardless of their status or stature, returns to their respective homes to rest. It signifies the arrival of evening or the conclusion of an event where participants disperse to their natural habitats or places of residence.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone fails at the crucial moment due to a silly or untimely distraction. It highlights how poor timing or lack of focus at the final step can ruin a lot of hard work.

This expression is used to describe someone who is waiting in vain or wasting time for something that will never happen. Legend has it that a fox waited under a Maddi tree for its fruit to fall, not knowing that the fruit stays on the tree even after drying, leading to a long and fruitless wait.

This proverb expresses nostalgia and the human tendency to believe that 'the good old days' were superior to the present or the uncertain future. It is often used when people are dissatisfied with current circumstances or are apprehensive about upcoming changes, suggesting that what has passed was more comfortable, virtuous, or prosperous.