అలిగి అత్తగారింటికెళ్ళేకంటే చెడి చెల్లిలింటికి వెళ్ళడం మేలు

This proverb reflects a traditional social sentiment regarding self-respect and family dynamics. It suggests that when a person loses their wealth or status (ruined), they might find refuge with a friend who views them as an equal, whereas going to a sister's (or relative's) house might lead to humiliation, a sense of burdening them, or being looked down upon by the in-laws.

This proverb is used to convey that one cannot escape their inevitable duties or destiny, no matter how much they try to resist or plead. It highlights that certain responsibilities or transitions in life are unavoidable and must be faced sooner or later.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a single person is held responsible or made to bear the brunt of both successes and failures, or where one person is blamed for everything that goes wrong. It refers to a merchant (Shetty) who is expected to accept both good and bad coins (or transactions) in his business dealings.

A fool travelling with a Šetti [ merchant ] was plundered. On the robbers' questioning the genuineness of the coin, the man referred to his rich friend who had up to that time escaped their observation. To injure a friend unwittingly, from stupidity. * Men moet de koe wel melken maar de spenen niet aftrekken. † Bon sang ne peut mentir.

This proverb is used to describe someone who accepts or takes responsibility for everything, regardless of quality or validity. It often refers to a person who is willing to manage or settle matters even when they involve faulty, doubtful, or subpar items/situations, much like a merchant who handles all kinds of goods to keep business moving.

This traditional proverb highlights the social complexities and ego associated with family dynamics. It suggests that while a friend might help you without judgment during financial ruin or failure, going to a sister's house (where she is a daughter-in-law) might cause her humiliation or lead to a loss of respect for your family in her marital home. It is used to emphasize maintaining dignity within family relations even during hard times.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who is considered incompetent or unreliable surprisingly manages to misappropriate or divert resources for their own personal interest or for their relatives. It is used to mock people who act as if they are incapable of work but are very clever when it comes to self-benefit or showing favoritism.

This expression emphasizes the importance of self-preservation and knowing when to retreat. It suggests that it is better to escape a bad situation even if it looks cowardly, rather than staying, getting trapped, and being humiliated or ruined. It is often used to justify leaving a losing battle or a toxic environment before things get worse.

This proverb suggests that it is wiser to avoid a dangerous or compromising situation and be ridiculed for it, rather than getting caught and suffering severe consequences. It emphasizes self-preservation over pride.

This proverb is used to convey that having something imperfect or partial is better than having nothing at all. It is similar to the English expression 'Half a loaf is better than no bread' or 'Something is better than nothing.'

Of two evils choose the least.

This proverb advises maintaining self-respect and social dignity. Going to an in-law's house while angry (after a fight at home) diminishes one's respect there, and going to a sister's house after losing one's wealth or status can become a burden and strain relationships. It emphasizes that one should avoid seeking refuge in places where their presence might lead to humiliation or awkwardness during times of vulnerability.