దున్నపోతు ముందు వీణ వాయించినట్టు

This expression is used to advise someone against dwelling on the past or mourning over things that cannot be changed. It is the Telugu equivalent of the English proverb 'There is no use crying over spilled milk.' It encourages focusing on the future instead of wasting energy on past mistakes or misfortunes.

This proverb suggests that in certain situations, being overly modest or shy can lead to personal loss. Specifically, when eating (so you get enough to satisfy your hunger) and when conducting business or legal matters (so you ensure your interests are protected), you must be direct and outspoken.

This proverb describes a situation where someone asks a very basic or silly question about something they have been involved in or practicing for a long time. It highlights ignorance, lack of attention, or a failure to grasp the fundamentals despite long-term exposure.

This expression describes a situation where someone suddenly becomes humble, respectful, or starts calling an enemy 'brother' only when faced with an immediate, life-threatening danger or severe punishment. It is used to mock people who only show manners or submission when they are under duress.

This proverb highlights two extremes where a person loses their rational thinking or common sense: when facing imminent death (due to fear and panic) and when overwhelmed by lust or infatuation. It is used to describe situations where a person acts irrationally under the influence of extreme fear or intense desire.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of seizing an opportunity when it is right in front of you. If you neglect or reject a fortune or a good deal that comes to you easily, you may not find it again even if you travel long distances or make extreme efforts (symbolized by a pilgrimage to Kashi) to search for it.

This proverb highlights the fleeting nature of philosophical realizations or remorse. People often express deep wisdom or regret during somber moments (like a funeral), but quickly return to their usual habits and desires once they are back in the comfort of their daily lives.

In Telugu, 'Chevi' can mean both 'ear' and 'key'. This expression refers to a situation where two parties must cooperate because they each hold a vital part of a solution, or more colloquially, it describes a situation where authority or access is divided, preventing any one person from acting independently.

This proverb highlights how society perceives the same object or quality differently based on a person's status or wealth. When a powerful or rich person possesses something, it is highly valued and praised, but when a poor person has the same thing, it is often dismissed as worthless or ordinary. It is used to describe social bias and the unfair weight given to status.

This proverb describes a person who is opportunistic or seeking extreme comfort and convenience. It is used to refer to someone who enjoys resources where they are plentiful and seeks shelter where it is most comfortable, often without contributing or showing loyalty. It can also imply living a life of ease and smart survival.