అధికాశ లోక దారిద్ర్యము

This expression suggests that poverty is not a natural state of being but rather a byproduct of social structures, economic systems, and the complexities of human civilization. It is often used in philosophical or sociological discussions to highlight systemic inequalities.

This proverb is used to describe the absolute extremes of a situation. It suggests that once a person has faced the ultimate penalty or the lowest form of deprivation, there is nothing more to fear or lose. It signifies reaching the limit of hardship or consequences.

This expression refers to extreme poverty where a person has nothing to eat and is constantly hungry, leading to frequent yawning (a physical sign of exhaustion or an empty stomach). It is used to describe a state of utter destitution where physical weakness and hunger are the only things one 'possesses'.

This expression describes a self-centered perspective where an individual views their own prosperity as the ultimate luxury (like that of Lord Indra) and their own lack as if the entire world is suffering. It is used to characterize people who are so absorbed in their own circumstances that they lack empathy or objective perspective on the state of others.

This proverb conveys two main points: first, that no problem is too deep if you have the skill (swimming) to handle it; second, it describes a state of ultimate poverty or simplification where one has nothing left to lose, often implying that once you reach rock bottom, you are free from further fear or loss.

Reduced to the last extremity.

This proverb warns that being overly greedy or ambitious often leads to losing even what one already possesses, resulting in total misery or lack. It is used to advise someone to be content and avoid the pitfalls of insatiable desire.

Arudra is one of the 27 lunar mansions (nakshatras). This proverb is an agricultural observation meaning that if it rains during the period when the sun enters the Arudra nakshatra (usually in mid-June), it ensures a good harvest for the year, thereby eliminating poverty for the farmers.

This expression suggests that poverty influences a person's perception and behavior so profoundly that it acts like an additional sense. It implies that being poor makes one hyper-aware of survival, limitations, and the harsh realities of life that others might not perceive.

This proverb highlights the limits of human experience and resilience. It means that once you know how to swim, no depth of water is insurmountable, and once you are reduced to wearing just a loincloth, there is no further state of poverty to fear. It is often used to suggest that once the worst has happened or the ultimate skill is acquired, one becomes fearless.

This is a popular agricultural proverb among Telugu farmers. Arudra is an auspicious star (nakshatra) that signals the onset of the monsoon. The saying implies that if it rains well during this period, the crops will be bountiful, ensuring prosperity and the eradication of poverty for the year.