అమ్మ పెట్టేవి నాలుగు పెడితేగాని, అరికలచేట బయట పెట్టదు.

Without asking, help wouldn’t be forthcoming, even from well-wishers.

This expression suggests that certain stubborn problems or bad behaviors cannot be corrected through gentle means; they require strict discipline, harsh measures, or a period of deprivation to be resolved. Just as fasting is a traditional remedy for digestive issues, some situations require a 'tough love' approach.

This expression is used when someone is being stubborn, mischievous, or uncooperative. It implies that the person will only behave or understand the situation if they are physically disciplined or sternly reprimanded. In a broader sense, it means some problems require a 'tough' approach rather than gentle persuasion.

This expression is used when someone offers advice or discipline only after a mistake has been made or when it is too late. It implies that if the guidance or 'tough love' had been provided earlier, the error could have been avoided. It is often used to point out that timely correction is more valuable than hindsight criticism.

* Por do quiera hay su legua de mal camino. † No hay tal razon como la del baston.

This proverb describes a person who neither does a good deed themselves nor allows others to do it. It is used to criticize dog-in-the-manger behavior where someone obstructs progress or charity despite having no intention of contributing themselves.

Said by a beggar of one from whom he generally received alms.

This expression refers to someone who is so accustomed to a routine of punishment or mistreatment that they accept it as a formality to get it over with. It is used to describe a person who lacks self-respect or has become completely desensitized to shame or consequences.

This proverb is used to describe someone who tries to sound helpful or dutiful while actually being impatient or demanding for their own needs. It highlights a person making excuses or using a seemingly valid reason (like the calf needing to graze) just to get what they want faster.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of communication and self-advocacy. It suggests that even the most caring person might not fulfill your needs if you don't express them, implying that one must speak up or ask for what they want to achieve their goals.

This expression is used to describe a person who behaves with excessive pride or maintains a high status ego even when they are in a state of poverty or are begging for basic needs. It highlights the irony of someone who lacks even a bit of tobacco but still speaks in a commanding tone as if they are royalty.

This is a popular Telugu proverb used to express faith in divine providence or nature. It implies that the creator who gave life to a creature will also provide the necessary means for its sustenance. It is often said to reassure someone who is worried about their future or survival, suggesting that basic needs will inevitably be met.