అల్పనరులకెల్ల నతివలపై చింత

This expression is used to describe someone who is exceptionally brave, self-reliant, or possesses an internal strength that allows them to navigate difficult or 'dark' situations without external help. Just as a firefly carries its own light and isn't hindered by the night, a person with true character or talent is not intimidated by adversity or lack of resources.

This expression highlights that youth is the prime time for experiencing life's luxuries and joys. It implies that the capacity to enjoy sensory pleasures is at its peak during one's youth, making it the 'best friend' or 'companion' to a life of enjoyment.

This proverb highlights that basic survival and the struggle for sustenance are the most significant and constant burdens a person can face. It emphasizes that hunger or the lack of resources to eat outweighs all other worldly concerns.

This proverb expresses the struggle of common people for whom daily survival and filling their belly is the primary concern above all else. It is used to describe a state of poverty or a situation where basic necessities take priority over higher thoughts or luxuries.

This is a traditional Telugu verse (padyam) that highlights essential attributes or sources of pride for specific subjects. It suggests that dal (lentils) is the primary delight or strength for the priestly class, salt is the fundamental ingredient that gives life to all flavors, and a well-decorated hair-bun (koppu) is the crowning jewel of a woman's beauty. It is often cited to emphasize how certain simple elements are foundational to identity and aesthetics.

This expression refers to a traditional social dynamic in Telugu culture where a man (Bava) is often considered a potential suitor for his maternal uncle's or paternal aunt's daughter (Maradalu). It describes a situation where someone has a natural inclination, expectation, or long-standing interest in a particular person or outcome due to customary ties or familiarity.

This proverb highlights that wealth accumulated by a miser, who refuses to spend it on themselves or for good causes, eventually ends up in the hands of the government or unintended, unworthy people after their death. It is used to suggest that hoarding wealth without enjoying it or helping others is futile.

This proverb emphasizes that to achieve success or see results in the branches/tips, one must address the fundamental source or the root cause. It is used to explain that investing effort at the foundation is necessary for overall growth and success.

This proverb is the Telugu equivalent of 'Don't cry over spilled milk.' It suggests that worrying about past mistakes or events that cannot be changed is a sign of lack of wisdom. Instead, one should focus on moving forward and finding solutions.

This proverb illustrates how people in power or those with higher social status often take liberties with or lack respect for those who are vulnerable or lack protection. It suggests that when someone is poor or weak, everyone feels entitled to treat them with over-familiarity or disregard their dignity.