అక్కమ్మ గుమ్మాలు ఎక్కలేము దిగలేము

This proverb highlights the immense difficulties and endless responsibilities involved in managing a family and worldly affairs (Samsara). It suggests that physical challenges, like swimming across a vast sea, might be achievable with effort, but the complex emotional and financial struggles of life are far more daunting and difficult to overcome.

This proverb suggests that difficult or stubborn problems require harsh or specialized solutions. Just as a horse that is hard to control needs a sharper, more painful bit (kakkula kallemu) to be tamed, a person with a difficult temperament or a complex situation needs an equally firm or tough approach to be managed.

This expression describes a hidden danger or a constant threat from someone who is very close or intimate. It is typically used to refer to a traitor, a secret enemy within one's own circle, or a persistent problem that causes anxiety because it is impossible to ignore.

This expression refers to an ideal state of domestic prosperity and harmony. It suggests that resources (grains) should be abundant and preserved, while children should be healthy, active, and cheerful like chirping birds. It is often used to describe a well-settled, happy household.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone is doing something in a completely wrong, backward, or illogical manner. Just as a bridle belongs on a horse's head to control it, putting it on the tail is useless and absurd. It highlights fundamental errors in planning or execution.

This expression highlights that fundamental principles or core foundations cannot be ignored when trying to build something significant. It is used to describe situations where someone tries to achieve a result while skipping the essential first steps or neglecting the basic requirements.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where once a person has fully committed to a difficult or risky task, they should no longer hesitate or worry about the minor discomforts or consequences that come with it. It is similar to the English idea of 'being in too deep to turn back' or 'taking the plunge.'

This proverb is used to explain that while one can hide the physical evidence of eating well (the pots used for cooking), the physical health and strength gained from it (the muscles) will eventually reveal the truth. In a broader sense, it means that internal development or true character cannot be concealed for long, even if the external process is kept secret.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone has already suffered the maximum possible loss or is facing the worst circumstances, making additional minor problems irrelevant. It signifies that when you are already in a total crisis, you no longer fear smaller consequences or further risks.

This expression suggests that the true state, character, or management of a household can be judged immediately upon entering the house (at the doorstep). It is often used to imply that the first impression or outward appearance of a place reflects the competence and nature of the person in charge.