గతిలేనివానికి కనబడిందే కూడు

This proverb highlights how people's attitudes are shaped by their circumstances. A person with no possessions or status often acts with great courage or recklessness because they have nothing to lose (tempu), whereas a wealthy or powerful person may become stubborn or obstinate (mondi) because of their ego or desire to protect what they have.

This proverb describes the alliance of two individuals who are both lacking in some way—either in character, resources, or capability. It is used to mock an association where neither party can help the other, or to point out that people with negative traits often find common ground with those who have nothing to lose.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone has absolutely no other options or alternatives left, forcing them to rely on a single, often final, source of hope or support. It is similar to the English proverb 'Beggars can't be choosers' or 'A drowning man catches at a straw'.

This expression emphasizes that the hospitality and love behind a meal are more important than the food itself. Food served grudgingly or without warmth is compared to 'Pinda', the ritual food offered to the deceased, which is considered uninviting and devoid of the joy of living hospitality. It is used to highlight that one should not accept or offer food where there is no mutual respect or affection.

This expression is used to describe something that lacks sense, logic, or harmony. Just as a song without a proper scale (shruti) is unpleasant to hear, words spoken without thought or intelligence are useless and irritating. It is often used to dismiss nonsensical arguments or irrelevant chatter.

This expression is used to describe a person who, in a state of absolute desperation or helplessness, seeks assistance from someone completely insignificant, unworthy, or incapable of helping. It highlights the irony and humiliation of being forced to rely on the lowest possible means when one has no other choice.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one's existing misfortunes are compounded by even more trouble or incompetence. It suggests that when a person is already in a helpless or poor state, they often end up with additional burdens that make their situation worse, rather than better.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an already difficult or miserable circumstance is made worse by poor companionship or inadequate support. It signifies the misfortune of someone who, being in a vulnerable state, ends up with a partner or resource that is incompetent or useless.

This proverb highlights that certain entities are defined by their inherent functional qualities. Just as a horse is valued for its ability to run (gati) and move with speed, certain traits are traditionally expected in specific roles for them to be considered successful or effective. It is used to suggest that without essential qualities, things lose their primary purpose or appeal.

This proverb is a play on words using the name of the town 'Atmakuru' (which literally translates to 'Soul-settling' or 'Settling for oneself'). It implies that a bachelor or a widower has no domestic ties or responsibilities, allowing him to live wherever he pleases or focus solely on himself. It is often used to describe the freedom, or sometimes the loneliness and lack of direction, of a man with no family life.