ఏనుగు మింగిన వెలగపండు వలె

This expression describes a situation where things or people are scattered, unorganized, and constantly rolling or moving about without stability. It is often used to refer to a lack of unity or a group where members are not cooperating and are heading in different directions.

This expression is used to describe a dilemma or a 'catch-22' situation where one is trapped between two equally difficult or dangerous alternatives. It is the Telugu equivalent of the English idiom 'between a rock and a hard place.'

This expression is used to describe a situation where an action or criticism has no effect on someone. Just as an elephant is too large and thick-skinned to be bothered by the heat of the sun, some people are indifferent to insults, advice, or external pressures.

This expression is used when a person of good character or noble nature is forced to endure insults, harsh words, or an unpleasant situation. It highlights the contrast between the person's inherent goodness and the bitterness they are currently experiencing.

This expression is used to describe an architectural or aesthetic mismatch, specifically when an unattractive or unworthy person is paired with something or someone beautiful and exquisite. It highlights the stark contrast between the 'crow' (representing someone plain or undeserving) and the 'donda pandu' (a bright red, attractive fruit representing beauty).

This expression is used to describe a situation or an asset (like a business, project, or luxury item) that yields high results or prestige but requires an equally high level of maintenance and expenditure. It signifies that big ventures come with big responsibilities and costs.

This expression is used to describe something that appears intact on the outside but is completely hollow or empty on the inside. It originates from the folk belief that when an elephant swallows a wood apple, the fruit remains whole through the digestive process, but the pulp inside disappears mysteriously. It is often used to refer to sudden losses, empty promises, or wealth that vanishes without a trace.

This expression refers to a situation where an effort, resource, or investment is completely wasted or becomes useless because it was applied in the wrong place or on too large a scale to make an impact. Just as a small amount of tamarind cannot change the taste of a flowing river, some actions are futile.

This expression refers to a situation where something appears whole on the outside but is actually empty or hollow on the inside. It is based on the folk belief that when an elephant swallows a wood apple (Velaga Pandu), the fruit remains intact visually, but the pulp inside is mysteriously consumed or evaporated by the time it is excreted. It is used to describe empty promises, hollow assets, or things that have lost their essence while maintaining their form.

It is swallowed whole, and is said to be found afterwards empty though unbroken. Said of a person in an influential position who does not benefit others.

This expression refers to something that appears intact on the outside but is completely empty or hollow on the inside. It is based on the folk belief that when an elephant swallows a wood-apple whole, the fruit's pulp is digested through the shell, leaving the exterior perfectly whole while the inside becomes empty. It is used to describe deceptive appearances or loss of substance.