దొంగిలబోతే మంగలం దొరికినది

This expression describes a situation where someone is caught red-handed or trapped in a hopeless, compromising position with no possibility of escape or denial. It is used when a person's wrongdoing is exposed so clearly that they are left completely helpless and at the mercy of others.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone is in a position of loss or risk, and they should be content with whatever they can recover or save. It also implies that for a person with bad intentions, even a small gain is a victory. It is often used to suggest that one should settle for whatever is available rather than risking everything for more.

This proverb highlights the irony of social status based on being caught. It is used to describe a situation where someone's reputation depends entirely on whether their dishonest actions are discovered. As long as their crimes are hidden, they are respected as a gentleman or 'Dora' (lord), but the moment they are caught, they are labeled a thief.

This expression suggests that for someone who is gaining something through illicit means or luck rather than hard work, even a small amount is a bonus. It is used to describe situations where people should be satisfied with whatever they can get when they have no right to it in the first place.

This expression is used to criticize someone who makes premature assumptions or feels overconfident after achieving a very small, insignificant part of a larger task. It highlights the folly of celebrating a minor detail when the main component is still missing.

This proverb is used to defend someone's character when they find something by chance rather than stealing it. It suggests that finding lost property accidentally does not make a person a criminal or a thief.

This proverb is used to describe an ingrained habit or professional trait that transcends personal relationships. It suggests that certain people cannot change their nature or 'tricks of the trade' even when dealing with their closest kin. It is often cited when someone acts according to their reputation or habit despite the circumstances.

This expression is used to convey that common things are easily found, but precious or rare things (like talent, true value, or high-quality items) require more effort or luck. It implies that one shouldn't expect extraordinary results or valuable outcomes just because they have access to something basic or common.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person sets out with a negative intention or a risky plan to gain something, but ends up with something completely useless or worse than what they started with. It highlights the irony of failing miserably even in a dishonest attempt.

This expression is used to defend someone's character when they find something by chance. It implies that discovering lost property does not make the finder a thief, or more broadly, that one shouldn't be blamed for a situation they didn't intentionally create.