చెయ్యి దాచుకోగలం గానీ కులం దాచుకోగలమా?

This proverb refers to the psychological burden or inherent nature of a wrongdoer. Just as criminals in folklore were believed to become restless or get caught during the dark night of Amavasya, this expression is used to say that no matter how well someone hides their crimes or bad intentions, their true nature or guilt will eventually expose them when the right circumstances arise.

This proverb is used to criticize hypocritical or selfish behavior. It describes a person who is very careful with their own wealth but is quick to hide or appropriate wealth belonging to others. It mocks the tendency of people to be stingy with their own assets while being greedy or dishonest regarding common or someone else's resources.

This proverb emphasizes that truth, much like fire, cannot remain hidden for long. Just as fire eventually burns through its covering and reveals itself via heat or smoke, a concealed truth will inevitably come to light despite any attempts to suppress it. It is used to advise someone that secrets or lies are temporary and will eventually be exposed.

This proverb refers to a situation where someone approaches another person with a specific request or goal but is too hesitant, shy, or secretive to state their true intention. It describes the irony of seeking help or a favor while trying to hide the very vessel needed to receive it. It is used to advise someone to be straightforward instead of being unnecessarily evasive.

While most people struggle to hide their grief, it is considered a sign of true character and maturity to remain humble and composed during times of great success or happiness without boasting. It emphasizes the importance of equanimity (Sthitapragyata).

This expression suggests that while one can hide their actions, intentions, or wealth (symbolized by the hand), one's true nature, upbringing, or inherent identity cannot be concealed for long. It is often used to imply that a person's character or background will eventually reveal itself through their behavior.

This proverb is used to explain that while one can hide the physical evidence of eating well (the pots used for cooking), the physical health and strength gained from it (the muscles) will eventually reveal the truth. In a broader sense, it means that internal development or true character cannot be concealed for long, even if the external process is kept secret.

This proverb refers to a person who approaches someone for help or a favor but is too hesitant, shy, or deceitful to state their true intention. It describes a situation where someone acts with false modesty or lacks the transparency needed to achieve their goal, much like someone visiting a neighbor to ask for buttermilk while trying to hide the vessel they brought to collect it in.

Pride with poverty. Pride and poverty are ill met yet often together.

This expression refers to a person who is hypocritical or selective in their behavior based on self-interest. It describes someone who acts disciplined or stingy in front of authority figures (like a mother-in-law) to make a good impression, but becomes careless or overly generous when dealing with those who have no power over them (like a child).

This proverb describes an elderly or frail person who is very close to death (one foot in the grave) but still possesses a strong desire for worldly pleasures or food. It is used to highlight the irony of human greed or the will to live even in the final stages of life.