చిక్కితే దొంగ, చిక్కకుంటే దొర

This expression means that even if a person of great stature or character falls on hard times or loses their wealth, their inherent dignity, skills, and fundamental nature remain unchanged. It is used to describe someone whose core identity and respect remain intact despite a change in their external circumstances.

This expression is used to describe a situation or an argument that is complicated and difficult to settle. It refers to a dilemma where one is unsure whether a dispute is manageable (caught) or completely out of control and slippery (not caught), highlighting a state of confusion or persistent trouble.

This expression describes a slow, tedious, or deliberate process of dismantling something or creating trouble. It specifically refers to the act of unraveling a rope bag (chikkani) strand by strand, implying a task that is done with calculated effort, often to cause subtle harm or to systematically strip away resources.

This proverb highlights the irony of social status based on being caught. It is used to describe a situation where someone's reputation depends entirely on whether their dishonest actions are discovered. As long as their crimes are hidden, they are respected as a gentleman or 'Dora' (lord), but the moment they are caught, they are labeled a thief.

This proverb is used to describe hypocritical people who maintain a respectable image in society as long as their misdeeds remain hidden. It implies that many people are only considered 'honorable' or 'gentlemen' because they haven't been caught yet, highlighting that status often depends on the public eye rather than true character.

This expression is used to describe a person who is stubborn, defiant, or overly sensitive to unsolicited advice. It highlights a scenario where someone reacts with unnecessary hostility or fatalism when others show concern for their well-being, essentially telling the meddler to mind their own business.

This proverb implies that when resources or ingredients are abundant and of high quality, the final result or output will be even more plentiful. It is used to describe situations where a strong foundation naturally leads to an overflowing or excellent outcome.

This proverb suggests that no matter how experienced or clever a person is at committing wrongful acts, they will eventually be caught or their secrets will be exposed. It is used to imply that one's past misdeeds or habitual dishonesty will inevitably catch up with them.

This proverb states that a person's character and actions are determined by their innate nature or social standing. It is used to explain that individuals will consistently act according to their established traits or upbringing, whether those are dishonest or noble.

This expression is used to describe things or people of high quality that retain their value or essence even when they face hardship, poverty, or physical decline. Just as a naturally beautiful woman looks graceful even when she becomes thin, a truly valuable person or object doesn't lose its inherent worth due to temporary setbacks.