కత్తి మీద సాము

This rhetorical question or proverb highlights the natural bias or difference in affection often found in families. It implies that a mother's innate love for her biological daughter is rarely matched by her feelings for her daughter-in-law. It is used to describe situations where there is perceived partiality or to acknowledge that certain bonds are naturally deeper than others.

This expression is used to describe a situation that is extremely risky, precarious, or requires great skill and caution to handle without causing a disaster. It is synonymous with 'walking on a tightrope' or 'skating on thin ice'.

This expression describes an extremely difficult, risky, or precarious task where one must balance multiple factors perfectly to avoid disaster. It implies that the situation is so dangerous and stressful that one wouldn't wish it even upon their worst enemy.

This proverb highlights the volatility and unpredictability of serving or working for someone who has recently acquired wealth (a nouveau riche person). It implies that such individuals may be arrogant, demanding, or lack the temperament of established wealth, making the relationship as precarious and dangerous as performing acrobatics on a sharp blade.

This expression describes a person who desires something small or unattainable (represented by 'Utti', a hanging net for pots) while neglecting or showing disdain for something abundant and valuable already in their possession (represented by 'Putti', a large grain measurement/granary). It is used to mock those who lack a sense of priority or fail to appreciate their own resources.

This proverb describes someone who is physically performing a task in one place (like working in a shop) but is mentally preoccupied or keeping a suspicious eye on someone else (the mother-in-law) to ensure they aren't being cheated or monitored. It is used to describe a person who lacks focus or is overly suspicious of others while working.

This expression is used to describe someone who overreacts or creates a huge fuss over a very trivial, insignificant issue. It highlights the behavior of being overly sensitive or dramatic about minor inconveniences.

This expression is used to describe a person who has high desires or grand ambitions but lacks the basic resources or means to fulfill them. It highlights the gap between one's wants and their actual capabilities or reality.

This proverb describes a situation where an influential person or authority figure remains unaffected by the troubles or financial burdens that plague the community they oversee. It is used to highlight systemic corruption or the cleverness of bureaucrats who ensure their own safety and wealth while others suffer losses.

This proverb describes the delicate and difficult nature of a woman's life in her husband's home. It suggests that she must be extremely careful, balanced, and tactful in her behavior to avoid conflicts and maintain harmony, as even a small mistake can lead to trouble, much like a sword dance.