ధర్మానికి దండుగ లేదు, వెట్టికి పైసా లేదు

This proverb describes inherent limitations of certain characters. A miser, by nature, cannot think of being charitable or righteous because of their obsession with hoarding. Similarly, a person who lacks common sense or works mindlessly (vetty) cannot be expected to possess wisdom or discernment. It is used to suggest that one shouldn't expect noble qualities from people whose nature is fundamentally opposed to them.

This proverb describes a person who lacks the means to earn even a small amount of money (a 'kasu'), yet talks or acts with grand indifference toward large sums (a 'hundred'). It is used to mock someone who is boastful or financially reckless despite being in deep poverty.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is blinded by power or arrogance. Just as a physical cataract prevents a person from seeing the world, an oppressive or tyrannical mindset prevents a person from seeing what is fair, moral, or just. It emphasizes that power-hungry individuals often lose their sense of right and wrong.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone finds a small reason to celebrate or gains a minor benefit amidst a significant loss or a wasteful expenditure. It refers to making the best of a bad situation or finding a silver lining in a calamity.

This expression is used when someone tries to help others or do something virtuous, but ends up facing unexpected trouble or negative consequences as a result of their kindness. It is similar to the English saying, 'No good deed goes unpunished.'

This proverb highlights two economic truths in traditional society: first, that money spent on charity or righteous causes is never a waste as it earns merit; second, that forced or involuntary labor (vetti) never results in any monetary compensation or earnings for the worker.

This proverb is used to describe people who act with arrogance, tyranny, or brute force. It implies that just as it is naturally impossible for a blind eye to see, it is impossible for a person acting out of sheer dominance or malice to follow the path of justice or ethics.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an unexpected or unnecessary additional expense occurs at a time when one is already spending heavily, typically during a celebration or crisis. It signifies the burden of 'wasteful' costs added to already high costs.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone makes multiple excuses to avoid work. It implies that both internal capability (the ox) and external conditions (the weather) are being blamed to justify inaction or laziness.

This proverb describes a situation of complete lack of security or discipline. It is used to refer to households or organizations where there is no control, no boundaries, and no protection, often implying a state of mismanagement or vulnerability where anyone can come and go as they please.