చొప్ప వామిలో నిప్పు దాచుకున్నట్టు

This expression refers to a situation where someone expects a result from a person or entity while putting effort or resources into a completely different, unrelated place. It highlights the foolishness of expecting a reward where no work was done or expecting an outcome from the wrong source.

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 expression is used to describe an action that is extremely easy, natural, or convenient. Just as an ox will immediately and effortlessly eat fodder placed right at its mouth, this phrase refers to situations where someone is given exactly what they need or want without them having to make any effort.

This expression is used to describe a task that is extremely difficult, nearly impossible, or futile because the object being searched for is very small or hidden within a vast amount of material. It is commonly used when someone is looking for a specific piece of information or a person in a very large group or data set.

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 expression refers to silly, meaningless, or illogical questions. Just as a dried corn stalk (choppadantu) is hollow and lacks substance, these questions are seen as lacking depth or common sense. It is used to describe someone who asks annoying or irrelevant questions.

Truth cannot be concealed or suppressed. If one tries to hide away truth, it is likely to harm one. It is therefore wise to reveal the truth by making a clean breast and gain peace of mind.

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 describes a person who has already caused significant damage or committed a grave error and then asks for permission or guidance to do something even worse. It is used to mock people who act innocently after being intentionally destructive or those who lack common sense regarding the magnitude of their mistakes.