భోజనానికి ముందు, స్నానానికి వెనక.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is lazy and irresponsible. It characterizes someone who shows great enthusiasm and haste when it is time to eat, but avoids or lags behind when there is work to be done.

This proverb advises on social etiquette and common sense. Being the first to bathe (in a public or shared ritual setting) might mean dealing with cold water or unpreparedness, while being last for a 'Sambhavana' (a traditional monetary gift or honorarium) might mean the funds or gifts run out before your turn. It is often used to suggest that one should time their actions wisely to avoid inconvenience or loss.

This proverb highlights a practical, if cynical, wisdom regarding social obligations and survival. In the olden days, 'vetti' (forced labor) required people to carry heavy loads; being first allowed one to pick the lightest load. In 'pankthi bhojanam' (communal dining in rows), arriving early ensured a good spot and that food wouldn't run out. It is used to advise someone to be proactive and punctual to secure the best possible outcome in both difficult tasks and rewarding opportunities.

This sarcastic expression is used to describe someone who lacks common sense, wisdom, or the desire to work, yet is always ready and eager to eat. It highlights the irony of a person being mentally inactive but physically demanding.

This expression describes extreme treachery or betrayal. It is used to refer to someone who receives hospitality or help from another person but then proceeds to plot against them or cause them harm.

For a petty businessman, the profit from his business would hardly meet his basic needs. This refers to an unprofitable enterprise.

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks self-respect or fails to take a hint. It refers to someone who insists on attending an event or staying in a situation where they are clearly not welcome or have been explicitly disinvited, often by trying to justify their presence with superficial excuses.

This proverb describes extreme ingratitude or malicious behavior. It refers to a person who accepts someone's hospitality (coming for a meal) but then proceeds to cause harm or ruin the source of that kindness (digging up/destroying the stove). It is used to criticize those who betray their benefactors.

This expression is used to describe a person who behaves contrary to the situation or reacts inappropriately to a rejection. It highlights an individual's stubbornness or their attempt to show off even when they are not welcome or when the primary request was a 'no'.

This expression refers to the sequence of daily routines or the priority of tasks. It is often used to describe someone who is very punctual or eager for food (being first at the table) but perhaps less enthusiastic about chores or preparation (being last to bathe). In a broader sense, it highlights a tendency to prioritize personal comfort or enjoyment over effort.