చిన్న ఇంట్లో పెద్ద కాపురం

This expression refers to performing a useless action or displaying brilliance in a place where there is no one to appreciate it. It is used to describe efforts that go to waste or talents that are showcased in an unworthy or empty environment.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a prosperous, large, or stable family/business falls into complete ruin or gets scattered due to internal conflicts or misfortune. It highlights the drastic downfall from extreme wealth to total destruction.

This proverb suggests that when a place or a situation is neglected or left without proper leadership and supervision, evil or undesirable elements will inevitably move in and take control. It is often used to emphasize the importance of oversight and maintenance in both physical properties and social or political institutions.

This expression is used to describe an inappropriate or ironic celebration during a time of loss or failure. It highlights the absurdity of celebrating at home when the primary source of livelihood (the field/crop) is destroyed.

This proverb is used to describe a state of stability and organized living. Just as embankments (bunds) protect a field by defining boundaries and preventing water loss, a family living separately (splitting from a large joint family into a nuclear one) is often seen as becoming more focused, settled, and manageable in its own space.

This proverb emphasizes the strength and joy found in a joint family system or unity. It suggests that living together as a collective unit (Koodali) leads to a vibrant, bustling, and happy life, whereas living separately or divided (Veradi) leads to loneliness and hardships.

This proverb advises financial prudence and modesty. It suggests that one should build a small, affordable house within their means, but focus on building a large, happy, and prosperous family or household within it. It emphasizes prioritizing people and relationships over grand material possessions.

This proverb is used to describe a difficult situation where both available options or people are troublesome, regardless of their status or seniority. It specifically highlights the common domestic trope of friction with mothers-in-law (or aunts), suggesting that both are equally difficult to deal with, differing only in the scale of their nuisance.

This proverb advises financial prudence and modesty. It suggests that one should live in a modest house (within their means) while focusing resources on the growth, prosperity, and well-being of the family members. It emphasizes prioritizing people and life quality over showy material assets.

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.