గతజల సేతుబంధనము

Refers to a situation or a grasp from which escape is impossible. In the Ramayana, Kabandha was a demon with long arms that could reach out and trap anything; hence, the term is used to describe a death-grip, a stranglehold, or being trapped in a complex, inescapable predicament.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone gets so caught up in trivial or peripheral activities and celebrations that they forget the most essential or core task at hand. It highlights poor prioritization or losing focus due to distractions.

This proverb highlights that quality, status, or inherent value remains even during times of adversity or decline. It is used to describe a person who maintains their dignity, standards, or importance even after losing their wealth or power.

This expression describes the behavior of narrow-minded or jealous people who, like frogs in a well, try to pull down anyone who attempts to climb up or succeed. It is used to characterize small-mindedness and the lack of a broader perspective or community support.

This expression is used to describe an action taken in advance to prevent someone or something from moving forward or causing trouble. It refers to the practice of tying the front legs of an animal to restrict its movement, figuratively implying a preemptive strike or a preventative measure to keep a situation under control.

This expression refers to taking action or seeking a remedy after it is already too late. It is used to describe futile efforts to fix a situation that has already passed or been ruined, similar to the English idiom 'locking the stable door after the horse has bolted' or 'crying over spilled milk.'

This expression refers to a very remote, forced, or far-fetched connection between two things or people. It is used when someone tries to establish a relationship or logic where none naturally exists, similar to the concept of 'six degrees of separation' but used more ironically or mockingly.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where money is spent on something completely useless or lost in a way that provides no return. Just as throwing a handful of money into a flowing river is a waste, it refers to futile expenditures or lost investments.

This proverb is used to emphasize that practical, tangible solutions are often more effective than rituals or superstitions. In the context of cleaning or physical needs, the water used by a barber (for shaving or washing) has immediate utility, whereas ritualistic water (mantrajalamu) may only have symbolic value.

This expression is typically used to imply that even if someone is a close relative or a god-like figure, they cannot exempt you from your responsibilities, the consequences of your actions (Karma), or legal/financial obligations. It emphasizes that rules, justice, or the results of one's deeds remain the same regardless of personal relationships.