అధమునికి ఆలయ్యేటంతకంటే, బలవంతునికి బానిస అయ్యేది మేలు.

This proverb warns against unnecessary interference with powerful or exceptionally lucky individuals. Giving hope to a lucky person is futile because their fortune already favors them, and allowing a strong or influential person to gain a foothold in your affairs can lead to them eventually dominating or displacing you.

This expression is used to signify that the origin or the core potential of something eventually manifests into its full form. It often refers to how a child inherits the qualities of the parents or how a small idea/effort grows into a significant result.

This proverb suggests that raw, bitter, or difficult beginnings can lead to sweet and rewarding outcomes. It is used to encourage patience and perseverance, highlighting that hard work or initial unpleasantness eventually transforms into something valuable and beneficial.

This proverb advises caution in dealings with specific types of people. Giving false hope to someone who lacks discretion or independence (atantrudu) leads to unnecessary trouble or harassment. Similarly, giving a foothold or space to a powerful person can lead to them eventually dominating or displacing you. It is a warning about maintaining boundaries for self-protection.

This expression suggests that security and basic comforts provided by a wealthy household are preferable to the extreme hardships and instability of poverty. It is used to describe a pragmatic choice where one prioritizes material survival over status or perceived freedom in destitute conditions.

This proverb emphasizes that self-respect and the respect of one's own family are the foundation of social status. If a person is not valued or respected within their own home, outsiders and even those in subordinate positions will naturally lose respect for them. It serves as a reminder to maintain dignity and unity within the household.

This proverb describes a situation where an endeavor or institution fails to achieve its primary purpose while the person in charge prospers. It is commonly used to criticize scenarios where a student's knowledge diminishes despite the teacher's growth in wealth, or more broadly, when a project fails but the manager benefits personally.

This expression highlights the reciprocal relationship between a leader and a follower. It suggests that a noble, just, and great leader (like Lord Rama) will naturally inspire and command the absolute loyalty, dedication, and strength of an extraordinary subordinate (like Hanuman). It is used to imply that the quality of a team or worker often reflects the quality of their leadership.

This expression suggests that serving a powerful or noble person provides more security and dignity than collaborating with a mean-spirited or incompetent person. In a partnership with an unworthy person, one faces constant friction and risk, whereas serving a strong person offers stability and protection. It is used when choosing between two difficult situations, favoring the one with more inherent value or stability.

This proverb highlights the importance of status, responsibility, and respect over mere material wealth. In traditional households, the eldest daughter-in-law (Pedda Kodalu) holds significant authority and decision-making power, even if the family is poor. Conversely, the youngest (Kadagottu Kodalu) in a rich family may have luxuries but often lacks a voice or status in family matters. It is used to suggest that it is better to lead in humble circumstances than to be a subordinate in affluent ones.