ఇల్లరికం కన్నా మాలరికం మేలు

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone makes a mistake or commits a fault, but instead of admitting it, they try to shift the blame onto someone else or act as if they are the victim. It refers to someone being caught in a wrong act but behaving dishonestly to escape the consequences.

This proverb describes the ultimate scale of things. Just as the sky represents the absolute height, a city or a ruling administration (Nagari) often displays the peak of power or dominance. It is used to remark on the vastness of nature or the overwhelming bureaucracy and power dynamics of urban/political systems.

This proverb emphasizes that the essence or the basic state of being (in this context, being a married woman with a living husband) is more valuable than external decorations or fancy clothing. It is used to suggest that substance and core identity are more important than superficial appearances.

This proverb describes a person who chooses an even more undesirable or extreme alternative when advised against a difficult situation. It is used when someone reacts to a suggestion by proposing a solution that is worse or more radical than the original problem.

This proverb emphasizes that how one is treated (with respect and warmth) is more important than the quality of the meal being served. It is used to highlight that heartfelt hospitality and a welcoming attitude hold more value than material offerings or luxury.

This proverb highlights the importance of animal husbandry and long-term planning. A heifer (young female cow) eventually grows to provide milk and offspring, ensuring a source of livelihood and financial security for a household. It suggests that small, diligent investments in livestock can eliminate poverty.

This proverb is used to convey that having something imperfect or partial is better than having nothing at all. It is similar to the English expression 'Half a loaf is better than no bread' or 'Something is better than nothing.'

Of two evils choose the least.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of having an experienced or wise person at the helm. It suggests that without a wise leader (a big head) to guide and make decisions, simply holding a position of authority or seniority (elderliness) is not enough to manage a family or a group effectively.

This proverb means that speaking or making promises costs nothing. It is used to describe situations where people talk big or offer hollow words because talking is free and requires no actual resources or effort.

He ruins himself in promises, and clears himself by giving nothing. ( French. )*

This proverb highlights the loss of self-respect often experienced by a man who moves into his wife's parental home (Illarikam). It suggests that living in poverty or isolation (Mularikam) while maintaining one's dignity is far superior to the dependency and potential humiliation faced when living under the roof of in-laws.