దొరను పేద అనరాదు, ఎద్దును సాధువు అనరాదు.

This expression is the Telugu equivalent of the 'Three Wise Monkeys' principle (See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil). It serves as a moral guideline advising people to avoid listening to gossip or negativity, refrain from witnessing bad deeds, and avoid speaking ill of others or using harsh language.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of obedience and common sense. Just as it is physically impossible and harmful to swallow a crowbar, it is considered morally wrong or detrimental to ignore the wise counsel of a teacher or mentor. It suggests that following a guru's guidance is essential for a smooth life, while attempting the impossible or the forbidden leads to ruin.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of integrity, honesty, and keeping one's word. It suggests that once you have made a promise (ఆడి) or made a statement (పలికి), you must stand by it and not deviate or lie about it later. It is used to describe a person of high moral character who honors their commitments.

This expression suggests that when you are in an environment or situation where you lack power, influence, or familiarity, it is better to remain humble and patient rather than asserting your status or ego. It is often used to advise people to wait for the right time and place to show their strength, similar to the concept of 'discretion is the better part of valor'.

This proverb is equivalent to 'There is no smoke without fire.' It suggests that rumors or accusations usually have some basis in truth, or that an effect must have a cause.

If you had not meddled with a bad business you would not have got a bad name. He who touches pitch defiles himself. ( Italian. )*

This proverb emphasizes the reliability of agriculture and land. It suggests that while people might fail in other businesses, someone who works the land with dedication will never be ruined or go destitute. It is used to highlight that land is a permanent asset that always provides a livelihood.

This proverb offers practical wisdom regarding trade and selection. One should not buy an ox when it is too young because its strength and capacity to work are unknown. Similarly, one should not buy clothes that are much larger than needed just because they look grand, as they will not fit properly. It advises making purchases based on utility and proven quality rather than potential or excess.

This expression is used sarcastically to describe a situation or person that is the complete opposite of what they claim to be. It highlights a paradox or a blatant lie, as a Nawab is traditionally wealthy and a tiger is inherently fierce. It is used when someone tries to portray a false image that contradicts their true nature or status.

This expression is used to advise humility and caution when one is in an unfavorable environment or among strangers where their status or power doesn't hold weight. It suggests that being modest in such situations is a sign of wisdom, rather than a lack of strength.

This proverb emphasizes the traditional importance of cows in ancient Indian households. It suggests that a home without a cow lacks essential dairy products (milk, curd, ghee) which are necessary for a complete and healthy meal, or symbolically, it refers to a lack of prosperity and spiritual purity.