భిక్షాధికారి అయినా కావాలి, లక్షాధికారి అయినా కావాలి

This proverb is used sarcastically to describe someone who expects to be pampered and fed without doing any work. In traditional Telugu culture, a son-in-law is treated with extreme hospitality and never asked to work, while a 'Basavanna' (sacred bull) is fed and revered without labor. It is used to mock lazy individuals who overstay their welcome and expect royal treatment.

This expression suggests that in life, to survive or succeed, one must possess either the strength and courage (Dheerudu) to face challenges head-on or the humility and submissiveness (Deenudu) to seek help and stay protected. It implies that being stuck in the middle with an ego but no strength is a recipe for failure. It is often used to advise someone on the attitude they should adopt depending on their circumstances.

This expression refers to a situation where a result can only be achieved through two specific means: either by treating the root cause (medicine) or by applying external pressure/motivation (a push). It is often used when someone is being stubborn or a task is stalled, suggesting that either a logical solution or a forceful nudge is required to get things moving.

This expression is used to describe a situation where there is an unnecessary or redundant addition to an already problematic or complicated situation. In the Hindu lunar calendar, an 'Adhika Masam' (extra month) can sometimes be Ashadha; figuratively, it refers to something surplus, unwanted, or a delay that complicates matters.

This expression is used to highlight a vast disparity or mismatch between two people, situations, or objects. It suggests that it is illogical or unfair to compare things that are fundamentally different in status, quality, or scale.

This proverb highlights the importance of having influence or survival skills to navigate the world. A king's son has power and resources through his status, while a widow's son is often perceived as someone who has grown up tough, resourceful, and street-smart out of necessity. It implies that to succeed or get things done, one needs either authority or grit.

This proverb emphasizes that one should aim for extremes rather than being stuck in the middle. It suggests that a person should either be completely detached from worldly possessions (like a master ascetic/beggar) or be immensely wealthy (a millionaire), as both positions command a certain type of freedom or influence, whereas being in the middle often brings struggle and dissatisfaction.

This expression emphasizes that one should aim for extremes or total mastery in their chosen path rather than being mediocre. It suggests that there is no point in being 'in-between' or average; one should either reach the pinnacle of wealth or, if choosing a humble path, be the most detached or humble version of it. It is often used to encourage commitment to a goal.

This proverb refers to the privilege of living a life of leisure and luxury without manual labor. It suggests that such a comfortable lifestyle is typically reserved for those born into royalty (power/wealth) or those who live off the earnings and influence of someone highly sought after (historically referring to the status of a 'Sani' or courtesan's family members who were often pampered). It is used to describe someone who enjoys benefits without working for them.

This phrase refers to a person who is assigned to watch over a specific corner or a border area. In a broader metaphorical sense, it is often used to describe someone who is protective of their territory or a person who holds a position of oversight in a specific niche or remote area.