ధ్వంస పారాయణము, దంటు మంట.

This expression is used to remark that dark skin or the color black is auspicious and divine, referring to Lord Vishnu (Narayana) who is traditionally depicted with a dark complexion. It is often said to challenge colorism or to compliment someone with a dark skin tone.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the overhead, effort, or waste (represented by the long stalk) far exceeds the actual result, profit, or utility (represented by the small ear of grain). It signifies disproportionate effort or high maintenance for a very small return.

This expression is used to describe a person who habitually says 'no' or 'nothing' whenever they are asked for something. It is a sarcastic way to refer to a stingy or uncooperative person who refuses to help or share by claiming they have nothing to give.

This expression is used to describe a forced, far-fetched, or imaginary connection between two unrelated things or people. It refers to an illogical attempt to establish a relationship where none naturally exists.

This expression describes a situation where someone is engaged in mindless or purely destructive activities that yield no positive results. It is often used to criticize actions that involve unnecessary damage or effort spent on something flimsy and short-lived, like a fire made of agricultural waste (stalks) that burns out quickly without providing real warmth or utility.

This proverb is used to describe opportunistic or selfish people who show great respect and devotion to someone only as long as they need a favor. Once their objective is achieved, they treat the same person with contempt or indifference.

This proverb satirically describes a person who pretends to surrender everything to a teacher or mentor but remains deeply attached to their physical comforts and material possessions. It is used to mock hypocritical devotion or someone who talks about sacrifice but keeps the most important resources for themselves.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a destructive, careless, or incompetent person undertakes a task. It signifies that when someone prone to ruin manages an enterprise, the end result for the stakeholders will be worthless or painful instead of profitable. In this context, 'Dhvamsam Narayana' is a metaphorical name for a person who ruins everything, and 'Pallēru kāyalu' (thorns) represent the useless and harmful outcome of his work.

This expression is used to describe a transaction or a ritualistic exchange where the formality is completed quickly and mutually. In a broader sense, it refers to a situation where something is given and something else is received immediately in return, leaving no further obligations or debts between the two parties.

Vâyanam is a gift of cakes, &c., to a Brahman. Taking as much as you give. To one who has a pie in the oven you may give a bit of your cake. (French.)

Usually said when there is a hurdle, gap or break in the very beginning.