చేవలేని చేను - లేవలేని ఆవు

This is a popular Telugu riddle (podiupu katha) used to describe a kite. The expression highlights something that flies in the sky like a bird but lacks wings, and moves like a shooting star or comet but lacks a fixed tail, relying instead on a string. In a metaphorical sense, it can describe someone who is trying to achieve something great while lacking the fundamental tools or autonomy required for it.

This proverb describes a situation where two people who are supposed to help each other are both equally incompetent, lazy, or incapable. It is often used to mock a partnership or a household where no work gets done because neither party has the strength or will to perform their duties.

This proverb highlights the importance of essential resources in a livelihood. Just as a household feels incomplete and lacks nutrition without dairy cattle, a farm cannot be productive without organic manure. It is used to describe situations where the fundamental elements required for success or prosperity are missing.

This proverb highlights the feeling of isolation and lack of support. Just as a farm without a tree offers no shade or respite for a farmer, a village where one has no relatives or friends offers no emotional support or belonging. It is used to describe situations where one feels lonely or lacks a support system in a particular place.

This is a popular Telugu saying used to describe the ubiquitous nature of Tamil people. It implies that just as crows are found in every corner of the world, you will find someone from the Tamil community (Arava) living and working everywhere, highlighting their widespread migration and presence.

This proverb highlights the importance of guidance and discipline in upbringing. Just as a field without a fence or boundary (gattu) is vulnerable to being trampled or ruined by cattle and outsiders, a child who is not taught discipline and boundaries will grow up to be reckless and lack direction in life.

This proverb is used to describe things that are unnatural, inexplicable, or lacking their primary cause. It refers to a situation where a result is seen without its source, often used to highlight something that feels incomplete, artificial, or suspicious.

This proverb is used to describe something that does not fulfill its primary purpose or lacks the essential quality that makes it valuable or complete in a traditional context. It highlights the sense of incompleteness or futility in a situation.

This proverb describes a situation where a person in a weak or vulnerable position is further troubled or exploited by even the simplest of external factors. It is used when someone's helplessness makes them vulnerable to things that wouldn't normally be a problem.

This proverb is used to indicate that certain things are universal and inescapable. Just as you will find crows in every village, you will find noise, problems, or specific types of people everywhere you go. It suggests that one cannot find a 'perfect' place free from common disturbances.