బ్రాహ్మణులలో చిన్న, బెస్తలలో పెద్ద.

This expression is used to mock or describe a man who prefers the company of women over men, or one who meddles excessively in domestic affairs and women's conversations. It characterizes a man who acts like a leader or an authority figure specifically in female circles where he may feel more dominant or comfortable.

This proverb highlights the irony of social status versus necessity, or situations where resources are allocated based on tradition rather than practical need. It refers to a scenario where those who work hard and need rest (like laborers) are given comfort, while those of high spiritual status are given simple traditional seating, often used to describe misplaced priorities or unexpected role reversals.

This expression describes a person who strategically chooses their position to avoid responsibility or danger. Among monitor lizards (which are slow/harmless), they act like a leader (the head), but among dangerous snakes, they act like the tail to stay inconspicuous and safe. It refers to someone who is opportunistic or cowardly, changing their status based on the company they are in.

This proverb describes a situation where a person has grand aspirations or fantasies but lives in poverty or hardship. It is used to highlight the stark contrast between one's desires/dreams and their actual meager circumstances.

This proverb is used to suggest that appearances can be deceiving or that certain social labels are not always what they seem. It implies that cows, while appearing docile, can be unpredictable or aggressive when provoked, and Brahmins, despite traditionally appearing poor or simple, often possess hidden intellectual or social wealth.

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This is an old traditional saying based on physiognomy and social stereotypes. It suggests that individuals who possess physical characteristics uncommon to their community (like a very dark-skinned priest or a very fair-skinned laborer) are deviants from the norm and should be approached with caution or suspicion regarding their character.

This proverb is used to mock someone who tries to sound superior or important in a group where everyone is essentially of the same status or rank. It highlights a false sense of hierarchy or self-importance among equals.

This expression refers to the 'food chain' or the hierarchy of power. It signifies that there is always someone more powerful or superior to oneself. It serves as a reminder to stay humble, as those who exploit the weak will eventually face a stronger force or a higher authority.

This proverb describes a person who is a misfit or acts hypocritically depending on their surroundings. It refers to someone who pretends to be virtuous or conservative when among the immoral, but acts indecently or irresponsibly when among respectable people. It is often used to critique people who lack consistency in their character and adapt the wrong traits for the wrong environment.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an accessory, a side issue, or a minor detail overshadows the main person or subject. It is often applied when someone wears ornaments or clothes that are disproportionately large for their stature, or when the overhead costs of a project exceed the actual value of the project itself.