ఎనుము గొప్పదయినా ఏనుగు బోలునా?

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely unpredictable in their generosity. When they choose to give, they give in massive, overwhelming quantities (like the 'milk' or yield of a giant elephant), but they might also go long periods without giving anything at all. It refers to a temperament that is erratic—either total abundance or nothing.

This proverb describes how when a powerful or influential person falls into a weak or helpless situation, even the most insignificant or inferior people will try to insult or take advantage of them. It is used to highlight how circumstances can change one's status and invite disrespect from those who wouldn't normally dare to challenge them.

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 proverb describes a situation where someone makes a large, unnecessary, or expensive investment or commitment just to make use of something small or trivial they acquired for free. It highlights a lack of foresight and disproportionate decision-making.

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 proverb emphasizes that greatness and intrinsic value do not change based on circumstances or surroundings. A person of high character or status remains significant whether they are in a low position or a high one.

This expression highlights the power of patience, love, or gentle persuasion. It suggests that even the strongest or most stubborn person (represented by the elephant) can be controlled or influenced through delicate and soft means (represented by a single hair) rather than force.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where something or someone you relied upon or had high expectations for ultimately fails to deliver or turns out to be useless. It specifically refers to the disappointment when a cow/buffalo expected to give milk turns out to be a male, which cannot.

This proverb is used to emphasize that results (the task accomplished) are more important than mere strength or ego. It suggests that one should focus on getting the work done successfully rather than boasting about one's power or status.

This proverb signifies that a person's inherent value, character, or status does not change based on their current circumstances or location. Whether in a high position or a low one, greatness remains greatness.