ధారలేని తిండి దయ్యపు తిండిరా.

This expression is used to describe a situation where evil influences, bad habits, or negative forces seem to have a more persistent and stubborn hold on a person or a situation than positive ones. It highlights how difficult it is to get rid of something harmful once it takes hold.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone who is already in trouble or has lost their reputation moves to a place or joins a group known for further indulgence or lack of discipline. Historically, Tenali was satirically associated with a carefree or hedonistic lifestyle in folk sayings. It refers to a person's path going from bad to worse.

This proverb highlights the importance of charity and philanthropy in a community. It suggests that a town or village lacking generous people (donors) who contribute to the welfare of others becomes desolate, lifeless, and unpleasant, much like a haunted place.

This proverb emphasizes that even if someone is living on charity or minimal resources, they should use that energy to do something productive and lasting. Just as building a bund (border/levee) protects an upland field from erosion and helps it retain water for the future, the support one receives should be used to build a foundation for one's own self-sufficiency or contribute meaningful work.

This traditional proverb emphasizes the cultural importance of hospitality and social structure. It suggests that a meal where one cannot ask for or receive a second serving (maaru) is considered poor or unfulfilling, while a meal eaten without a host or proper supervision (dora) is chaotic or unlucky, like food consumed by spirits.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of having a proper curry or accompaniment with a meal. In Telugu culture, eating plain rice without any flavor or side dish is considered poor etiquette or a sign of extreme misery, likened to how an animal might be fed.

This proverb is used to describe a sense of relief after a major, stressful task or responsibility is completed. It highlights the mental burden one carries until a significant event (like a wedding in the family) is successfully concluded, after which the person can finally find peace of mind.

This expression is used to describe someone who eats very little but works excessively hard, or conversely, someone who eats like a glutton but does no work. It highlights the mismatch between consumption and labor.

This proverb is used to mock people who make excuses to avoid their responsibilities. It describes a situation where an incapable or lazy person blames physical ailments for not working, while someone who doesn't contribute resources still demands the most benefits. It highlights hypocrisy and laziness within a household or team.

This expression is used to describe someone who is very enthusiastic and consumes a lot when it comes to eating, but is extremely lazy or avoids responsibility when it comes to doing any work. It highlights the contrast between greed and laziness.