కొల్లేటి పంట కూటికే చాలదు

This expression is used to signify that all the hard work, toil, and various struggles a person undergoes in life are ultimately for basic sustenance and survival. It is often used to express a sense of humility or philosophical resignation regarding the grind of daily life.

This proverb implies that no matter how far one travels or wanders, they will ultimately return to their place of origin, home, or their natural group. It is often used to describe how people's true nature or loyalties eventually lead them back to where they belong.

This proverb describes a situation where an outcome or profit is visible, but the immense cost, hidden sacrifices, or the loss of resources required to achieve it are ignored. It is used to highlight that success often comes at a high, unacknowledged price.

This proverb refers to the intense, suffocating heat experienced during the 'Krittika Karthe' (a specific period in the lunar calendar, usually in May). It describes a situation where the weather is so hot and humid that it feels as though someone is literally squeezing or choking your throat, making it difficult to breathe or stay comfortable.

This proverb describes a situation where people focus only on profits or successful outcomes while ignoring the heavy losses, sacrifices, or 'human cost' incurred to achieve them. It is used to criticize management or systems that value results over the well-being of the workers or resources involved.

This proverb refers to a situation where an investment or effort is doomed from the start because the yield will not even cover basic operational costs. It is used when a venture is so unprofitable that even performing the final steps (like harvesting) results in a net loss.

This proverb refers to Kolleru Lake, which is prone to sudden floods. While the land is fertile, farming there is highly risky. If floods occur, the cattle used for plowing often get stuck in the mud or drown, leading to their death. It is used to describe ventures where the potential for gain is overshadowed by the high risk of losing one's primary assets or livelihoods.

This proverb highlights the volatility and risk associated with summer farming. Due to extreme heat or water scarcity, a standing crop that looks healthy can perish or be harvested in a single day, implying that its success is highly uncertain compared to other seasons.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a major crime or mistake is conveniently covered up or forgotten due to a larger subsequent event or natural disaster. It implies that a significant sin or liability has been 'cleared' by chance or through a massive overwhelming occurrence, often used in a cynical sense about escaping accountability.

Kollêru and Krâpa are adjacent villages in the Krishna District.

This proverb reflects on the ultimate simplicity and transience of life. It emphasizes that despite one's wealth, achievements, or surplus, the basic necessity remains food, and the final destination for everyone is death. It is used to counsel humility and to remind people not to be overly greedy or proud of their possessions.