కోతి పిల్లులకు రొట్టె పంచినట్లు

This proverb highlights the unpredictable nature of rain-dependent (dry-land) farming. It suggests that such a farmer's wealth or food supply is limited and contained, much like a small box. It is often used to describe someone whose livelihood is entirely dependent on nature's mercy and lacks surplus stability.

This proverb highlights the physical and social hardships of old age. It suggests that while many things in life can be unpleasant, the infirmity, dependency, and loss of dignity often associated with extreme old age are the most difficult to endure.

This expression is used to describe a parent's extreme affection or bias, where they see their children as countless or uniquely special compared to others. It can also be used to mock someone who makes exaggerated or boastful claims about their own possessions or family.

This expression refers to an uncompromising or stubborn grip on something, often to one's own detriment. It describes a situation where someone refuses to let go of an idea, possession, or habit even when it becomes problematic, much like a monkey that won't open its fist to release bait even if it means being captured.

This expression is used to describe a person's selfishness or double standards. It highlights a situation where someone takes the lion's share or the best part of something for themselves while offering only a small, insignificant portion to others.

This expression is used to describe a situation where two people, often who should be at odds or are expected to be rivals, secretly collaborate or help each other for mutual benefit. It is frequently used to highlight how internal and external parties might conspire together, often in a negative or mischievous context.

This expression is used to describe a situation where two parties fight over something, and a third party who steps in to mediate ends up taking the entire benefit for themselves. It originates from a fable where a monkey, while trying to divide a piece of bread equally between two cats, eats the whole thing bit by bit under the guise of balancing the portions.

Swindling others under pretence of arbitration.

This proverb describes a situation where someone attempts to intimidate a powerful or stubborn opponent using weak, ineffective, or indirect methods. Just as a cat isn't truly frightened by the sound of a winnowing basket being struck, the person being targeted is unlikely to be moved by such empty threats or superficial actions.

This proverb describes an extreme or foolish overreaction to a minor nuisance. It is used when someone gives up something very valuable or essential just to escape a small, manageable problem.

This proverb emphasizes the incomparable love and comfort associated with a mother's care. It suggests that even the simplest, coarsest food prepared by one's mother is more satisfying and precious than the most luxurious feast prepared by anyone else, including one's spouse. It is used to highlight the deep emotional bond and selfless nature of maternal love.