కట్టె గొడ్డలిలో దూరి, కులానికి చేటు తెచ్చు.

This proverb refers to a person who, by joining or helping an enemy or an external force, inadvertently or intentionally causes the destruction of their own family, community, or group. Since the wooden wedge (kusi) helps the iron axe head stay firm to cut down trees, it symbolizes someone aiding in the downfall of their own origin.

This proverb highlights irony and hypocrisy. It refers to people who lack resources or capability but overcompensate with empty talk or excuses. Similarly, it mocks how some people prepare an excessive variety of dishes for a funeral feast (Thaddinam) despite the occasion being one of mourning or limited means. It is used to describe someone who talks big but has nothing of substance to show.

Used to describe a situation where someone goes on a great, significant journey or puts in immense effort, only to achieve something trivial, useless, or even negative. It highlights the disparity between the effort expended and the poor outcome achieved.

This proverb is used to describe a traitor or an insider who helps an outsider destroy their own community or family. Just as an iron axe head needs a wooden handle (made from a tree) to chop down trees, a group is often brought down by one of its own members.

This proverb is used to explain that the inherent nature of a person cannot be changed, regardless of the environment you provide for them. It is specifically used when someone brings a person with bad intentions or habits into a safe space and expects them to behave well, only to be disappointed when they cause destruction.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person starts making poor decisions or loses their sense of judgment when they are facing a period of misfortune or ruin. It suggests that one's intellect or character often declines when their downfall is near.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone's own unnecessary talk, boasting, or ill-timed actions lead to their own downfall. It is often used when a person exposes themselves to danger or trouble by not knowing when to stay silent.

This expression is used to describe a state of extreme confusion, chaos, or being completely overwhelmed. It refers to a situation where someone is so disoriented that they cannot distinguish between different paths or directions, metaphorically suggesting that their world has been turned upside down or converged into a single point of confusion.

This proverb highlights the traditional power and temperament associated with the Velama (warrior/landlord) community in historical contexts. It means that when dealing with people in positions of absolute authority or those with a short fuse, one must only say things that please them or be prepared for severe consequences. It is used to describe situations where one must be extremely tactful or subservient to avoid danger.

This proverb highlights that every physical trait has its own disadvantage depending on the situation. Just as a tall tree or person is more likely to be affected by strong winds (or storms), a short person or object is more likely to be submerged or affected by rising waters (or floods). It is used to suggest that no one is perfectly safe or superior in all circumstances.