గువ్వ గూడెక్కెను, అవ్వ మంచమెక్కెను.

This expression is used to highlight extreme corruption. It suggests that nothing, even the most basic or essential action, can be accomplished without paying a bribe. It is typically used when criticizing a system where illegal gratification has become mandatory for every step of a process.

This expression refers to the end of a long day when everyone, regardless of their status or stature, returns to their respective homes to rest. It signifies the arrival of evening or the conclusion of an event where participants disperse to their natural habitats or places of residence.

This expression is used to describe someone who is being hypocritical or manipulative. It depicts a person who recites the names of God (Keshava, Narayana) to appear pious or selfless, but immediately shifts to a selfish, basic demand for food (buvva). It is often used to mock people who pretend to be spiritual or elevated while their true intentions are entirely materialistic or self-centered.

This is a rhythmic expression used to describe the onset of evening or dusk. It signifies the end of a long day when birds return to their homes and the elderly retire to rest, symbolizing a time for everyone to settle down.

This proverb is used to describe someone who takes advantage of others' hard work or expects results immediately after a task is completed. It refers to a situation where a person tries to claim a spot or benefit from a space right after someone else has put in the effort to prepare it, or more commonly, it mocks someone who expects a result to happen instantly in a newly prepared environment.

This proverb highlights the influence of timing and circumstances. It suggests that even the highest authority (the king) follows certain natural or routine patterns, such as resting or ending the day when nature signals it. It can also imply that every action has its appropriate time, or that small events can trigger larger outcomes.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone is being incredibly selfish or insensitive, focusing on their own inappropriate or secondary desires while others around them are suffering from a basic, urgent crisis.

* Chi l'ha per natura, fin alla fossa dura.

This proverb highlights the importance of having experienced elders (like a grandmother) to manage and guide a household, just as a standard unit of measure (like the traditional 'thavva') is essential for accurate transactions. It signifies that wisdom and proper standards are foundational for a stable life.

This expression is used to describe an extreme state of corruption where nothing moves or functions without a bribe. It satirically suggests that even a basic or inanimate object requires a payoff to perform its duty.

This proverb describes a situation where someone wants to have their cake and eat it too. It is used when a person tries to hold onto two mutually exclusive options or wants all the benefits of a situation without making any sacrifices or choices.

* Man kan ikke drikke og pibe paa eengang.