Wealth

This expression highlights the universal human attraction towards physical beauty (desire) and material wealth (gold/money). It is often used to suggest that it is human nature to be tempted by these two elements, though it can also be used as a cautionary remark regarding the primary sources of human attachment or downfall.

While literally referring to a famous temple town in Tamil Nadu, in common Telugu parlance, this term is used to describe a large-scale financial scandal, conspiracy, or fraudulent scheme involving high-stakes deception.

In Telugu culture, 'Chinnamma' (Lakshmi) represents prosperity and wealth, while 'Peddamma' (Alakshmi/Jyeshtha Devi) represents poverty and misfortune. This proverb means that when hard work, good fortune, or prosperity enters a home, poverty and misfortune automatically depart. It is used to describe a positive turning point in one's life or household.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the cost of a basic, inexpensive item or its maintenance is disproportionately high. It highlights irony or absurdity when something simple ends up being unnecessarily expensive or overvalued.

This proverb describes a situation of extreme inequality within a family or partnership where one person enjoys all the benefits and luxuries, while the person responsible for or supporting them is left with the remains or suffers in poverty. It is used to highlight unfair distribution of wealth or credit.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone pretends to be deeply saddened or concerned about a loss, but their grief is insincere or motivated by selfish reasons. Historically, a merchant might mourn a monkey not for the animal itself, but for the business loss if the monkey was a performer or attracted customers.

This proverb highlights materialism or transactional relationships. It suggests that for someone driven by professional gain or money, the most attractive or important person is simply the one who pays them. It is used to describe situations where loyalty or affection is bought rather than earned through character.

This proverb emphasizes the peace of mind that comes with being debt-free. It suggests that living a humble life with minimal resources is far superior to living in luxury or comfort if it means being burdened by financial debt.

Without debt, without care. (Italian.) * He is rich enough who owes nothing. (French.)†

This expression is used to describe someone who is exceptionally well-dressed or a situation where things are very decorative and ornate. It highlights a perfect aesthetic combination where both the main element (saree) and the accessory (blouse) are of high quality and beauty.

This expression is used to describe how people naturally flock to a place or person where there is wealth, benefit, power, or some form of attraction. Just as flies are instinctively drawn to sweetness, people gravitate towards opportunities or individuals who can offer them something advantageous.

This expression is used to describe a situation of excessive extravagance or unnecessary distribution of resources. It refers to someone who is so foolishly generous or wealthy that they give away valuable items (like spotted goats) even to those who do not require or deserve them, often leading to their own ruin.

This proverb is used to criticize people who become arrogant, ill-mannered, or behave recklessly when they suddenly gain wealth, status, or power. It suggests that those who lack character cannot handle prosperity gracefully.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an untrustworthy or greedy person is placed in a position of authority over valuable resources. Just as a bandicoot would uncontrollably devour the grain it is supposed to be 'stored' with, a corrupt person will exploit the wealth or responsibility they are given for personal gain.

This expression signifies that signs of prosperity, growth, and hope should never be interrupted or cut short. Boiling milk and a glowing lamp are considered symbols of auspiciousness and 'Lakshmi' (wealth/good fortune) in Telugu culture; letting them die out abruptly is seen as a bad omen or a sign of declining luck.

This expression is used to describe something that is present in abundance or is easily accessible within a large collection. It signifies a state of plenty or a situation where a specific resource is concentrated in one place, making it easy to find or utilize.

This proverb conveys that if you possess the fundamental resources or basic requirements, you can achieve any desired result or style. It is often used to suggest that as long as one has health or wealth (the foundation), they can manage their life in various ways.

If you have means, you can do any thing you like.

This expression describes a perfectly convenient or self-contained setup where everything one needs is within immediate reach. It is used to signify a comfortable, well-organized, or ideal living situation where there is no need to step outside for basic necessities.

This is a humorous and satirical proverb used to mock people who pretend to be highly knowledgeable or scholarly but struggle with basic communication or display absurd confusion. It highlights the irony of someone claiming intellectual superiority while failing at fundamental tasks or words.

This expression is used to describe a situation where money or resources lent or invested are completely lost. It signifies a total loss where neither the profit/interest nor the original capital is recoverable. It is often used as a cautionary remark about bad debts or risky ventures.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where there is an overwhelming abundance or variety of things, often to the point of being unnecessary or overly elaborate. It can also imply that despite having everything one could possibly need, one still looks for small additions or refinements.