కామము కాలమెరుగదు

This proverb suggests that external displays of piety or religious symbols do not necessarily change one's internal character or worldly desires. It is used to point out hypocrisy or to emphasize that true change must be internal rather than superficial.

This proverb describes people who are so overwhelmed by their work or circumstances that they lose track of time or physical comfort. A washerwoman (Chakali) is often so busy washing clothes until dark that she doesn't realize the day has ended, and those in extreme poverty or labor-intensive roles may work to the point where they don't even have the luxury of a proper bed or rest. It is used to describe tireless labor or being completely engrossed in one's duties.

When a person is very hungry anything tastes good; when very sleepy, one does not require the usual comfort one looks for.

This expression means that when a person is truly exhausted, they do not care about the luxury or comfort of the bed; and when a person is extremely hungry, they do not care about the taste or quality of the food. It is used to describe how basic biological needs override preferences for luxury or quality in extreme situations.

This proverb suggests that when a person is consumed by immediate rage, they lose their sense of judgment and fairness. It is used to describe how anger blinds one from distinguishing between right and wrong, often leading to actions one might later regret.

This proverb highlights how basic human instincts and intense emotions override physical circumstances or social norms. When a person is extremely hungry, they do not care about the quality or taste of the food; when someone is exhausted, they can sleep anywhere regardless of the comfort level; and when someone is deeply in love, they disregard social embarrassment or shame to pursue their feelings.

This expression is used to reflect on the past with nostalgia or to express skepticism about the future. It suggests that people often perceive the present or the unknown future as more difficult or uncertain compared to the 'good old days' they have already experienced.

This proverb describes things that are temporary and superficial. Just as a marketplace is bustling and vibrant only during trading hours and becomes desolate afterward, or a courtesan's beauty is enhanced only for professional allure, some situations or appearances lack depth and permanent value.

This proverb highlights two harsh realities: first, that intense desire or greed often blinds a person to moral or ethical wrongs (doing anything to achieve a goal); second, that a person running a business (like an innkeeper or caterer) is driven by profit and cannot afford to give away food for free or act out of pure merit/charity.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone fails so badly that they lose both their reputation (name) and their discipline or principles (rules). It describes a total loss of character and standing.