దూడ కుడిస్తేగాని దుత్త నానదు (తడవదు)

This proverb implies that people often do not perform their duties or provide what is needed until they are nudged, urged, or pressured. It is used to describe situations where a desired outcome requires some initial effort, prodding, or a catalyst to initiate the process.

This proverb is often used to describe items or situations that require specific conditions to become functional. In a literal sense, it refers to a rough wool blanket (gongali) which is stiff when dry but becomes flexible and usable only when damp. Figuratively, it describes people who only work or cooperate under specific pressure or when their basic needs are met.

This proverb is used to warn against interfering in others' affairs or trying to show off authority where it isn't needed. It suggests that such overreaching behavior often leads to losing one's dignity or ending up with menial tasks (symbolized by the 'dutta' or small pot). It is used to advise someone to mind their own business to avoid embarrassment.

This expression is used to question where a resource or money went when there is nothing to show for it. It highlights a situation where something has been consumed or spent, but the result is neither productive (like a calf growing) nor preserved (like milk stored in a pot). It is typically used when someone is unaccountable for losses or missing items.

This proverb is used to illustrate that certain outcomes or actions can only be triggered by a specific, natural catalyst. It often implies that one must offer a small incentive or initiate a process to get the desired result, or that a mother's affection/cooperation is invoked by the presence or needs of her child.

This proverb describes a situation of extreme inequality within a family or partnership where one person enjoys all the benefits and luxuries, while the person responsible for or supporting them is left with the remains or suffers in poverty. It is used to highlight unfair distribution of wealth or credit.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone exaggerates the value or quantity of something only after it is lost or gone. It mocks people who claim a great loss but didn't value the object much when it was actually available.

This expression is used to describe an extreme state of corruption where nothing moves or functions without a bribe. It satirically suggests that even a basic or inanimate object requires a payoff to perform its duty.

This expression describes a classic 'Catch-22' or a circular deadlock situation where two necessary conditions are dependent on each other, making it impossible to resolve either. It is often used to describe bureaucratic hurdles or complex problems where one cannot start without the other, yet neither can move forward.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the resources or earnings available are barely enough to cover the basic expenses or the immediate container, leaving no surplus for anything else. It is often used when income is entirely consumed by necessities.