చెడగొట్టడానికి చేతులు వస్తాయి గానీ, నిలపడానికి మతులు రావు

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone makes a poor choice against the advice of well-wishers and then tries to justify the unfortunate consequences as if they were intended or deserved. It highlights the irony of stubbornly sticking to a bad decision even when it results in hardship.

This expression is used to describe how a small amount of foolishness, negative influence, or bad advice is sufficient to cause significant destruction or failure. It highlights that while building something takes effort, ruining it requires very little.

This proverb describes a person who is lazy and uncooperative. It is used to mock someone who shows no interest or effort in performing their actual duties (the hands don't come forward) but is quick to abandon or complain about things they were told to avoid in the first place. Essentially, it highlights a character that is useless in action but active in excuses or contrary behavior.

This proverb is used to criticize people who misuse their power, influence, or status to harass or insult others. It implies that having the capability or strength to do something does not give one the right to act unfairly or cross boundaries.

This expression means that people in power or authority often act based on what they hear (rumors, complaints, or reports from subordinates) rather than observing the truth with their own eyes. It is used to caution that leaders can be easily misled by biased information because they do not verify the facts personally.

This expression describes a situation where someone abandons a task or withdraws support at a critical stage after taking a significant risk or putting in initial effort. It refers to someone who leaves others in a vulnerable or dangerous position without warning, or sabotages their own success at the final moment.

This proverb emphasizes time management and the importance of focusing on the task at hand. It suggests that gossiping or idle chatter during the day hinders productivity, while excessive talking at night deprives one of necessary rest. It is used to advise someone to stop talking and focus on their responsibilities or sleep.

This expression is used to describe a futile or meaningless action where someone tries to achieve a result without having the necessary resources or substance. Just as measuring length with empty hands (without a physical object to measure) results in nothing, this refers to making empty promises or engaging in unproductive efforts.

This expression is used sarcastically to describe a situation where someone's performance or work is so bad that the listener/observer wants them to stop immediately. It implies that the effort was a waste of time and the 'appreciation' (nodding) was merely a courtesy, so the person should just hand over their tools and leave before causing further annoyance.

This proverb is used to highlight unfair or disproportionate rewards. It describes a situation where the person who actually did the work or was involved gets a very small amount (Agani), while the mediator or the one who arranged the deal gets a much larger reward (Tankam). It is often applied to middlemen taking excessive commissions.