దీపం కింద చీకటి

This expression is used to describe a situation where there is darkness or ignorance right at the base of a source of light or knowledge. It refers to someone who is very close to a person of greatness or wisdom, yet remains uninfluenced or unaware of that excellence, similar to how the area directly beneath a lamp remains in shadow.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a smaller or less significant thing is overshadowed or ignored in the presence of something much larger or brighter. It can also refer to someone who provides light or guidance to others but remains in darkness or unrecognized themselves, similar to the English idiom 'The cobbler's children go barefoot.'

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone only takes action when a problem becomes imminent and personal. It implies that people are often lazy or indifferent until a crisis literally touches them, forcing them to move or react out of necessity.

This proverb highlights the importance of context and necessity. It suggests that the value of something (like help, knowledge, or resources) is only realized when there is a problem or a deficiency to address. It is often used to explain that greatness or solutions are only recognized in the presence of challenges.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is quick to point out faults in others while being completely oblivious to their own flaws. The Gurivinda seed (Rosary Pea) is bright red and beautiful, but has a distinct black spot at its bottom which it cannot 'see'. It serves as a metaphor for hypocrisy and lack of self-awareness.

This expression is used to convey that every great success or positive situation often comes with an equivalent amount of hidden struggle, failure, or negative aspects. It emphasizes the balance between prosperity and adversity.

This expression refers to a hidden or imminent danger that is very close to a person, often without them realizing it. It is used to describe a precarious situation where a threat exists in one's immediate or most trusted environment.

This expression is used to describe an impossible or extremely difficult task involving bringing together people or things that have a tendency to scatter or remain individualistic. Just as tiny, round mustard seeds roll away and cannot be easily formed into a solid ball, it refers to the difficulty of achieving unity or consensus among a group of disjointed entities.

This proverb emphasizes that problems do not solve themselves and ignorance does not vanish without effort. Just as light is required to dispel darkness, active initiative or the light of knowledge is necessary to overcome obstacles or lack of understanding. It is used to suggest that one must take the necessary steps to achieve a result.

This proverb highlights that mere talk or chanting of words is no substitute for actual effort or action. Just as saying the word 'lamp' doesn't illuminate a dark room, theoretical knowledge or empty words cannot solve a practical problem without implementation.