దరిద్రాన్నయినా ఏడేండ్లు దాచిపెట్టితే అక్కరకురావచ్చు

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 highlights irony and hypocrisy. It refers to people who lack resources or capability but overcompensate with empty talk or excuses. Similarly, it mocks how some people prepare an excessive variety of dishes for a funeral feast (Thaddinam) despite the occasion being one of mourning or limited means. It is used to describe someone who talks big but has nothing of substance to show.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone lacks resources but has excessive needs or demands. It highlights the irony of having the least capacity to fulfill requirements while having the greatest desires or appetites. It is often used to comment on how problems seem to multiply for those already in a miserable state.

This proverb emphasizes the power of having backing or support (financial, social, or emotional). It suggests that with the right assistance or a strong foundation, one can overcome even the most formidable obstacles that would be impossible to tackle alone.

This expression is used to describe a person who appears extremely innocent, naive, or passive to the point of being helpless or dull-witted. It often refers to someone who lacks the basic initiative or reaction expected in common situations.

As demure as if butter would not melt in his mouth, and yet cheese will not choke him.

This expression highlights the power of patience, love, or gentle persuasion. It suggests that even the strongest or most stubborn person (represented by the elephant) can be controlled or influenced through delicate and soft means (represented by a single hair) rather than force.

This proverb suggests that no matter how much wealth one possesses, if they have insatiable greed, they are effectively 'poor' because they are never satisfied. It is used to describe people who are never content with what they have and always crave more.

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 emphasizes perseverance and long-term commitment. It suggests that once an initial effort shows signs of success (the seed sprouts), one should double down and work consistently for a long period to reap the full benefits and establish stability, rather than quitting early or being inconsistent.

This proverb signifies the unpredictable nature of fortune and time. It means that a wealthy person can become poor and a poor person can become wealthy; nothing in life is permanent. It is used to advise humility during success and hope during adversity.