ఆవును చంపి గోరోజనం రోగార్తులకిచ్చిన పుణ్యాత్ముడగునా?

This proverb highlights the extreme physical exhaustion and danger associated with primitive labor-intensive farming tools like the 'Etamu' (a traditional counterpoise water-lift). While Yama, the God of Death, takes lives one by one, the grueling toil of using such equipment is said to destroy the health and lives of several people simultaneously due to the sheer strain.

This expression highlights that everything essential for human survival—be it food (stomach) or fiber for clothing (clothes)—originates from the Earth. It is used to emphasize our dependence on nature and the importance of agriculture and the land.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is suffering from many problems or miseries but still maintains an excessive amount of ego or arrogance. It implies that despite being in a pitiable state, their pride remains unshaken.

This expression highlights the fundamental importance of the earth (land) as the source of all basic necessities. 'Potta' (stomach/food) refers to agriculture and crops, while 'Batta' (cloth) refers to natural fibers like cotton. It is used to emphasize that everything we need to survive ultimately comes from the soil and to express gratitude or respect for nature and agriculture.

This is a humorous or sarcastic expression used to comment on shifting priorities or hygiene. Pulagamu (a simple rice and dal dish) is often associated with traditional rituals or humble living, while Payasam is a luxury dessert. It can also imply that someone who settles for simple, honest food is blessed, whereas those indulging in luxuries might be cutting corners or acting out of greed.

In Telugu culture, eating on a banana leaf or a stitched leaf plate (vistari) is traditional. This expression highlights the virtue of hospitality; it means that even a small act of providing a plate or assistance to someone in need of food earns one great spiritual merit (punyam), similar to the act of providing the actual meal itself.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone hands over a beloved or vulnerable person/thing to someone who is naturally their enemy or someone who will cause them harm. It signifies an act of betrayal or extreme foolishness where one fails to protect what is dear.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone exerts a lot of effort, creates a huge fuss, or suffers greatly for something that is either trivial or results in no benefit at all. It highlights the futility of unnecessary drama or hard work that goes unrewarded.

This proverb highlights that being associated with powerful or busy people often means a lack of emotional warmth or personal attention. Just as a stone has no feelings, a ruler consumed by power or state affairs may have no time or empathy for family bonds, leaving the bride neglected.

This expression is used to describe people who offer plenty of advice, empty promises, or boastful talk but disappear when actual practical help or financial support is needed. It highlights the gap between verbal commitment and real-world action.