కంటికి ఇంపైతే, కడుపుకూ ఇంపు

This proverb describes a state of extreme hunger or desperation where a person doesn't care about the quality, temperature, or condition of what is offered; they only care about satisfying their immediate, dire need. It is used to illustrate how necessity overrides preferences.

Anything is acceptable to one who is in want. Beggars must not be choosers. Hungry dogs will eat dirty puddings. A hungry ass eats any straw. ( Italian. )*

This expression emphasizes the essential qualities of communication and art. It suggests that just as a song must be melodious to be enjoyed, speech should be graceful, polite, and meaningful to be effective. It is used to describe someone who speaks beautifully or to highlight the importance of eloquence.

This traditional proverb suggests that a well-managed household depends on two main pillars: a disciplined or well-behaved spouse who maintains order, and the practice of saving money or being thrifty. It is used to emphasize the importance of self-control and financial management in achieving domestic harmony and prosperity.

This is a traditional proverb reflecting historical social dynamics. It suggests that just as a cloth needs a good shake to be clean and a curry needs tempering for flavor, some believe a daughter-in-law needs constant 'correction' or 'nagging' to keep the household running smoothly. It is often used to describe traditional mothers-in-law who justify their strictness as necessary for household discipline.

This expression suggests that the appearance or presentation of food significantly influences one's appetite and satisfaction. It is used to emphasize that when something looks appealing, it is more likely to be enjoyed or accepted. In a broader sense, it can also refer to how first impressions affect overall judgment.

This expression is used to describe a situation that is extremely annoying, constant, and difficult to ignore. Just as an eye infection causes persistent discomfort and a body ache makes one restless, this phrase refers to a person or a problem that causes continuous irritation or trouble.

This proverb emphasizes that providing nourishment and care is the ultimate act of motherhood. It suggests that a person's true benefactor or caretaker deserves the same respect and status as one's own mother, highlighting that love and provision are the foundations of a parental bond.

This proverb is used to describe something or someone that appears attractive, virtuous, or high-quality on the surface, but is actually rotten, hypocritical, or of poor quality internally. It is similar to the English expression 'All that glitters is not gold' or referring to a 'whited sepulcher.'

This proverb describes a situation where someone who is not used to luxury or fine things is given something valuable, but they either do not know how to handle it properly or carelessly ruin it due to their inherent habits or lack of refinement. It is used to remark on people who cannot appreciate or maintain the value of what they have been gifted.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb reflecting old social dynamics. It suggests that just as a cloth needs vigorous rinsing to be clean and a curry needs tempering (tadka) to be tasty, a daughter-in-law was traditionally thought to need 'discipline' or constant reminders (nagging) to be a good homemaker. It is often used to describe situations where someone is being unnecessarily nitpicked or controlled under the guise of improvement.