కోడికూత, కాడి పూత

This proverb describes the plight of a hardworking laborer or farmer. 'Fire above' refers to the scorching sun, 'fire below' refers to the hot earth, and 'fire in the belly' refers to hunger. It signifies that despite physical suffering and hunger, they cannot stop working because they are afraid of the master's wrath or the loss of their livelihood.

This expression highlights the fickle nature of desire or the physical toll of overindulgence. It describes a situation where one is desperate and eager for something (like food) until they get it, but immediately suffers the consequences or feels burdened/lethargic once the desire is satisfied.

This proverb refers to a situation where one is never satisfied or comfortable. It describes people who complain about being hungry before they eat, and then complain about being too full or having stomach discomfort after eating. It is used to mock someone who is always grumbling regardless of the circumstances.

This proverb highlights that people who associate with you only out of necessity, obligation, or for their own selfish interests are as annoying and unhelpful as a crow's cawing. Just as the crow's sound is unpleasant and lacks depth, the support or words from fair-weather or opportunistic relatives lack genuine affection and sincerity. It is used to describe hollow relationships that provide no real emotional comfort.

This proverb is used to describe a person's inherent character or basic nature, suggesting that it is permanent and cannot be changed despite external efforts, education, or purification processes. It is often used when someone repeatedly exhibits the same flaws despite repeated attempts to correct them.

This expression is used to describe something that has existed since the very beginning or has been a tradition since time immemorial. It signifies that a practice or an event is as old as the foundation of the place or community itself.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb emphasizing the importance of early soil preparation. It suggests that land ploughed during the month of Chaitra (the first month of the Hindu calendar, usually March/April) becomes as fertile and valuable as pure gold, leading to a high-quality harvest.

This expression is used to describe a person who holds absolute power, influence, or authority in a particular situation. It implies that the person can do whatever they want without any opposition, and others must follow their rules or whims.

This expression is used to describe someone who holds an insignificant or ineffective position of power (Bodi pettanam) and someone who is constantly distracted or unable to focus, much like the short, light sleep of a chicken (Kodi kunuku). It often characterizes a situation of ineffective leadership or a lack of seriousness in one's duties.

This proverb describes how people are often fascinated by anything new, but quickly lose interest or find the old things repulsive or messy. It is used to remark on the fleeting nature of human curiosity and the tendency to value novelty over longevity.