చిన్నపాటి పొట్టకు శ్రీరామరక్ష

This proverb emphasizes that just as a fort protects and dignifies a town, a quick and fitting reply (repartee) adds grace and completeness to a conversation. It is used to highlight the importance of effective communication and responsiveness in dialogue.

This expression is used to describe someone who gives an irrelevant or nonsensical answer to a serious statement, or someone who is completely out of touch with the context of a conversation. It highlights a lack of comprehension or a deliberate attempt to be evasive by bringing up something unrelated.

This is a seasonal observation in Telugu culture regarding the transition of weather. It signifies that the winter chill typically vanishes after the Shivaratri festival (February/March), and the scorching summer heat begins to be felt intensely by the time Sri Rama Navami (March/April) arrives.

This expression is used to signify divine protection or a strong safeguard. It is commonly used as a blessing for someone's safety, or to describe something that is perfectly secure and beyond harm. It can also be used as a closing statement to wish for ultimate well-being.

Said in cases of absolute want, &c.

This is a traditional Telugu blessing often used by elders when someone sneezes or during auspicious occasions. It expresses a wish for divine protection and a long, healthy life.

This is an agricultural proverb related to the rain and the growth of the paddy crop during specific lunar mansions (Nakshatras). It means that if it rains during the 'Hasta' Nakshatra, the grain develops secretly/deeply within the plant (Anagu Potta), and if it rains during the 'Chitta' Nakshatra, the grain matures and bursts forth ready for harvest (Chitu Potta). It emphasizes the importance of late-season rains for a good yield.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of wit and timely responses in a conversation. Just as a fort provides grandeur and protection to a settlement, an apt and quick-witted reply enhances the quality and elegance of a dialogue.

This expression refers to a futile or meaningless action. It describes an effort that is wasted because the recipient or the situation cannot benefit from it, just as makeup or jewelry is useless on a dead body.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone asks for something specific or extra when the basic foundation is completely missing. It highlights the absurdity of requesting minor details when the core necessity is non-existent.

This expression is used to describe a person who is content with satisfying their own basic needs (especially food) and lacks concern for others or larger worldly affairs. It often refers to a self-centered or simple-minded focus on one's own survival and comfort.