అడిగితే చిరాకు, అడగకపోతే పరాకు

This is a sarcastic expression used to describe someone who, when they lack basic necessities, demands or expects high-end luxuries instead of seeking practical alternatives. It highlights the irony of having extravagant tastes or unrealistic expectations while being in a state of poverty or deprivation.

Said by an impertinent beggar when refused assistance by a stingy person.

This proverb is used to express optimism or consolation when facing a significant loss. It implies that even after a great ruin or downfall, something of value or a small portion of the original wealth/status will still remain to sustain a person.

Cadaru is a very small square mat. Every thing can be brought to some account. Nothing so bad as not to be good for something. * Quod non opus est, esse carum est.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person tries to cover up a mistake or a wrongdoing with a lie. If the lie is believed, they get away with it (it remains just a 'lie'); if the lie fails and they are caught, the act is exposed as something much more scandalous or serious. It highlights how people manipulate truths to suit their convenience until they are caught.

This expression highlights the essential finishing touches or actions that bring out the best quality in something. Just as tempering (seasoning) is vital for a curry's flavor, properly rinsing and snapping a saree makes it look crisp and beautiful. It is used to signify that certain processes are indispensable for a perfect result.

This expression is used to signify that if something does not exist or isn't available in the first place, no amount of requesting or demanding will make it appear. It highlights the futility of asking for resources or help from someone who possesses nothing themselves.

This proverb is used to describe how growth affects different things differently. Just as sorghum (jonna) loses its grain value and becomes mere fodder (jaadu) when it grows excessively tall, but paddy (vari) yields more grain (vadlu), human endeavors or traits must be channeled correctly. It emphasizes that excessive growth in the wrong direction can be useless, while growth in the right context leads to productivity.

This proverb highlights the difference in productivity between crops. It means that tall growth in sorghum (jowar) doesn't necessarily mean high yield as it mostly results in fodder (stalk), whereas vigorous growth in paddy leads to a plentiful grain harvest at the bank. It is used metaphorically to say that appearances of growth or activity are only valuable if they result in actual substance or wealth.

This proverb describes a difficult or 'no-win' situation, often referring to people who get annoyed when reminded of their duties but completely forget or neglect them if left alone. It highlights the frustration of dealing with someone who is both irritable and irresponsible.

This is a humorous and rhyming taunt or satirical verse used to mock someone's appearance or vanity. It is typically used in a playful or argumentative way to tell someone that they aren't as attractive or impressive as they think they are, especially when the speaker is already in a bad mood.

This expression emphasizes the importance of constant care, maintenance, and hard work. Just as a field requires regular attention to remain productive, any business, relationship, or skill will deteriorate into a wild or useless state if neglected.