బంధువులకు దూరం బావికి చేరువ

This is a traditional Telugu proverb based on folk beliefs. It suggests that certain sounds or signs predict future events: the whistling or crackling of a traditional wood-burning stove is seen as a sign that guests/relatives are coming to visit, whereas the unusual howling of dogs is considered an ill omen signaling impending drought or famine.

Let us have florins and we shall find cousins. ( Italian. )†

This proverb suggests that for a peaceful and sustainable life, one should reside near a reliable water source (like a lake) for basic needs, but maintain a healthy distance from relatives to avoid unnecessary conflicts, interference, and drama.

This proverb highlights the importance of being near essential resources (like water) for survival while maintaining a healthy distance from relatives to avoid unnecessary conflicts, gossip, or dependence that can arise from over-familiarity.

This proverb describes a situation where someone demands payment or taxes for something they do not control or have no authority over. It is used to mock illogical or greedy demands made by people who try to exploit situations where they have provided no service or protection.

This proverb is used to indicate that small, insignificant efforts or resources are insufficient to achieve a large or monumental task. It suggests that major goals require substantial action rather than just minor attempts.

This proverb describes the nature of fair-weather friends and opportunistic relatives. Just as frogs flock to a pond only when it is filled with water and disappear when it dries up, people tend to surround you and claim relationship only when you are wealthy or successful, abandoning you during hard times.

This expression is used to describe a person who is stubbornly contrarian or non-conformist. It refers to a situation where everyone agrees on a particular path or opinion, but one specific individual (metaphorically the brother-in-law) insists on taking a completely different or opposite stance, often causing a deadlock or isolation.

This expression is typically used to imply that even if someone is a close relative or a god-like figure, they cannot exempt you from your responsibilities, the consequences of your actions (Karma), or legal/financial obligations. It emphasizes that rules, justice, or the results of one's deeds remain the same regardless of personal relationships.

This expression is used to suggest that even if you cannot see someone or something in person, you can still hear about them or stay in touch. It emphasizes that physical absence does not justify a complete lack of communication or information.

This proverb highlights the unique and close bond shared between a man and his brother-in-law (specifically his wife's brother or sister's husband) in Telugu culture. It suggests that this relationship is often characterized by friendship, mutual support, and a lack of the formal tensions sometimes found in other familial ties.