ఇనుపకుండ పగిలితే అతుకవచ్చునుగాని, మట్టికుండ పగిలితే అతుకలేదు

This proverb describes a person who lacks common sense or priority. It refers to someone who neglects valuable things (ghee) while carefully preserving useless things (empty pot), highlighting foolishness or inverted priorities in decision-making.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone who is stubborn, cold, or unresponsive finally starts to yield or change their attitude when they face pressure, difficulty, or a direct consequence (the 'heat'). It implies that everyone has a breaking point or a point of vulnerability.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone realizes they are significantly weaker, less durable, or less capable than their opponent and chooses to withdraw to avoid certain destruction. It highlights the vulnerability of the weak (clay) when faced with the unshakable strength of the powerful (stone).

This expression suggests that telling a lie requires weaving together multiple fabricated points to make it seem believable. It implies that lies are often inconsistent or fragile, much like a cloth made of many patches that might fall apart under scrutiny.

This proverb highlights the importance of favorable weather conditions, specifically the cooling breeze known as 'pairugali', for a successful agricultural yield. It is used to express that when the right environment or support is present, success and prosperity are guaranteed.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a major disaster or failure occurs at the very last moment, just when success or the desired result was within reach. It represents unfortunate timing and the loss of hard work right before it pays off.

This proverb is often used in a reverse or comparative sense to highlight the permanence of certain damages. While modern variations sometimes swap the subjects, the traditional wisdom suggests that physical objects like a shattered clay pot are beyond repair, whereas human relationships and hearts (emotions) can potentially be healed through effort and time. It is used to emphasize caution in one's actions and words to avoid irreparable damage.

This proverb emphasizes the necessity of hard work and physical labor to achieve results. It implies that if one engages in agriculture or any significant task (symbolized by the bullock), they must be prepared to get their hands dirty and work the land (the soil) to see success.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where subordinates or employees are not worried about the loss or failure of a project or business because they don't have a personal stake or investment in it. They believe they can simply find work elsewhere, while only the owner suffers the loss. It highlights a lack of responsibility or ownership among workers.

This proverb emphasizes the fragility of human relationships and emotions. While physical objects like iron can be repaired or welded back together after breaking, the trust and affection in a relationship, once shattered, can never truly be restored to its original state. It serves as a warning to be careful with one's words and actions to avoid hurting others deeply.