దరిలేని బావి దాపులేని కొంప

This expression is used to describe a place that is in a state of absolute chaos, emptiness, or total disarray. It can refer to a house that looks messy or, metaphorically, to a situation where everything of value (be it materials, ideas, or assets) has been stripped away, leaving behind a scene of devastation or utter disorder.

This proverb is used to describe things or situations that lack stability, safety, or proper structure. Just as a well without a protective wall (ledge) is dangerous to fetch water from, a house without a proper foundation or defined premises is insecure and lacks dignity. It is often used to refer to families or ventures that lack a strong leader or a solid base.

This proverb highlights the uselessness or danger of things that lack essential qualities. A well without a protective ledge is dangerous and incomplete, just as an act of giving (charity) that lacks a true spirit of generosity or kindness is considered hollow and meaningless.

This proverb is used to convey that having something imperfect or flawed is better than having nothing at all. It is similar to the English expression 'Something is better than nothing'.

Better a bare foot than no foot at all. Better a blind horse than an empty halter. (Dutch.)*

This expression is used to describe a very large, spacious, or sprawling house. It draws a comparison to the mythical city of Lanka from the Ramayana, which was known for its immense size and grandeur. It is often used to emphasize that a house is disproportionately large for the number of people living in it or simply to remark on its vastness.

This expression refers to something that is incomplete, ineffective, or lacks the essential component that gives it value. Just as 'Pulagam' is incomplete without dal and 'Dappalam' (stew) is tasteless without salt, it is used to describe a situation, a person's work, or an event that is pointless or lacks substance.

This proverb is used to describe something that is incomplete or lacks a fundamental ingredient. In Telugu cuisine and culture, onions are essential for taste in curries, and serving dal is a basic requirement for a wedding feast. It highlights that certain elements are indispensable for an experience or task to be satisfactory.

This proverb is used to describe something or someone that lacks the essential quality or skill required for its nature or purpose. Just as a shepherd must be able to whistle to herd animals and sugarcane is useless if not sweet, an object or person without its defining characteristic is considered ineffective or worthless.

This proverb highlights the necessity of leadership and stewardship for stability. It implies that a kingdom without a ruler falls into chaos, and a village without a caretaker or cultivator cannot sustain itself or maintain order.

This proverb is used to emphasize that certain components are absolutely essential for an event or a task to be complete. Just as dal is a staple at a traditional Telugu wedding feast and salt is indispensable for taste in a curry, some things are fundamental requirements that cannot be ignored.

Said to a great friend whose presence at an entertainment is indis- pensable.