ఏకులు వడికినట్టూ కాదు, మొగుడి దగ్గర పడుకున్నట్టూ కాదు

This proverb warns against mistaking unhealthy or artificial growth for true progress or strength. Just as swelling (edema) might make a limb look larger but actually indicates illness rather than muscle, superficial or temporary gains should not be confused with genuine success or health. It is used to caution people who are proud of hollow achievements.

This proverb highlights the importance of stability and permanence. Just as a temporary thatched shed (pandiri) cannot provide the security of a permanent home, a person who is just passing through (paradesi) cannot fulfill the long-term responsibilities or provide the stability expected of a spouse. It is used to caution against relying on temporary arrangements or people who lack commitment.

This proverb describes someone who acts counterproductively or does things at the wrong time. Since cotton gets ruined in the rain and thread is best handled in stable conditions, it mocks poor planning and the lack of common sense in choosing the right time for a task.

This expression is used to describe someone or something that is in an ambiguous or uncertain state, belonging to neither of two distinct categories. It often refers to a person who lacks a clear identity or a situation that remains unresolved and 'in-between.'

This proverb describes a situation where one seeks help from someone who is already negligent, lazy, or looking for an excuse to avoid work. In the olden days, a 'Sunkari' (tax collector) would be looking for any reason to seize goods or cause trouble; asking a sleepy one for help would only result in them waking up to demand taxes or make things harder for you.

This expression highlights the items or people that truly belong to a person and provide real security or status. It is used to emphasize that only what is legally yours or physically in your possession can be relied upon in times of need or social standing.

This proverb highlights that valuable things or people of substance are often quiet and humble, whereas cheap or superficial things make a lot of noise. It is used to compare a wise, dignified person with a boastful, loud person, implying that quality doesn't need to shout to be noticed.

A wise man is sparing of his words, but a fool likes the sound of his own voice. A deluge of words and a drop of sense. " It is not the hen which cackles most that lays most eggs." (Dutch.)

This proverb is used to convey that time and circumstances are the same for everyone. If a favorable event happens for one person, similar relief or results will eventually come to others in a similar situation. It suggests patience and the universal nature of fate or timing.

This expression is used to remind that imitation or having a single similar trait does not equate to having the actual stature, strength, or essence of another. It highlights that inherent nature and capability cannot be changed by superficial similarities or mere pretension.

This proverb highlights that some things are unreliable or lack substance despite appearances. Just as the tall palm tree provides very little actual shade for someone seeking cover, a person in a casual or illicit relationship cannot provide the security, commitment, or social standing of a spouse. It is used to describe temporary or deceptive situations that fail to offer true protection or long-term stability.