దౌలు దస్తు, పెండ్లాము పస్తు

This proverb describes a situation where a person creates a deal or an arrangement that appears mutual but is primarily self-serving. It is used to mock someone who pretends to be fair while ensuring they get the better or more fundamental part of the bargain.

This expression is used to criticize someone who tries to maintain a high-status appearance or a stylish facade while lacking the actual financial means or substance to back it up. It implies that superficiality cannot solve deep-rooted problems.

This proverb describes a person who pretends to be wealthy and prosperous in public (by wearing expensive clothes or 'dastu') while suffering from poverty and hunger (fasting or 'pastu') in private. It is used to mock vanity, false pride, or the act of maintaining appearances despite financial hardship.

This proverb is used to describe a person who prioritizes his wife and finds her sweet (like jaggery) while neglecting his mother or viewing her as a burden/troublemaker (like a ghost). It is typically used as a criticism of someone who forgets their filial duties after marriage.

This expression is used to describe a person who lacks self-respect or has already lost their reputation and continues to act shamelessly without concern for social standing. It highlights a situation where someone, having already suffered a major embarrassment or failure, behaves as if nothing happened or tries to seek further social engagement despite their loss of dignity.

This proverb highlights the nuances of relationships and blood ties. It suggests that while people may hold certain titles or positions through marriage, they do not necessarily inherit the same biological significance or emotional depth as the original relative. It is often used to caution against expecting the same level of care or loyalty from relatives by marriage as one would from blood relatives.

This proverb suggests that for someone with no material possessions or financial resources, a supportive and hardworking life partner is their greatest asset and source of strength. It highlights the value of companionship and family over material riches in times of poverty.

This is a traditional benediction or self-blessing often recited during rituals or as a daily prayer. 'Ayushyam' refers to longevity, and 'Arogyam' refers to health. It is used to invoke divine blessings for a long, disease-free life.

A selfish man blessing himself. Priests bless themselves first. (German.)* * Pfaffen segnen sich zuerst.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person in need seeks help from someone who is in an even worse or more desperate condition. It highlights the irony of expecting assistance from those who lack the means to support themselves.

This proverb describes an absurd or extreme level of insecurity and over-cautiousness. Historically, powerful figures were feared for taking whatever they desired; however, doubting one's own spouse just because a powerful person enters the vicinity represents irrational anxiety or a lack of trust. It is used to mock someone who anticipates a problem that is highly unlikely or reacts disproportionately to a situation.