కోటి విద్యలు నేర్చినా, కూటి కొరకే

This proverb highlights that no matter how many skills, educational degrees, or talents a person possesses, the ultimate goal of all their efforts is to earn a livelihood and satisfy their basic need for food. It is used to remind people that every profession or skill has the same fundamental purpose: survival.

All professions are only so many means of livelihood.

The purpose, by and large, of acquisition of diverse special skills is only to make a living.

This proverb highlights that discipline, fear, or external motivation is often necessary to get work done. It is used to describe situations where someone only performs their duties or behaves well because of strict supervision or the threat of consequences, much like a monkey performing only when its trainer moves the stick.

It is the raised stick that makes the dog obey. ( Danish. )* * Holder man el Kleppen til, agter Hunden intet Bud.

This proverb describes a situation where someone asks for a small favor or simple assistance, but the other person responds by demanding a much larger effort or posing an even bigger problem. It is used when a solution offered is far more exhausting or complicated than the original issue.

This proverb describes how one bad habit or vice often leads to another. Specifically, it implies that to hide a significant misdeed, one must inevitably resort to lying. It is used to suggest that moral failings or deceptive behaviors usually go hand in hand.

This expression describes a situation where a person loses their only source of support or guidance. It is used when someone is rendered completely helpless or becomes directionless after losing a critical tool, person, or resource they relied upon entirely.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone unnecessarily provokes or irritates a powerful, dangerous, or short-tempered person, thereby inviting trouble or a violent reaction. It highlights the foolishness of instigating someone who is already capable of causing significant harm.

This proverb emphasizes the supreme importance of agriculture and food security over any other professional skill or academic knowledge. It suggests that while there are countless ways to earn a living or gain knowledge, the profession that provides basic sustenance (farming) is the most noble and essential for survival.

This is a traditional folk riddle or a rhythmic saying used in Telangana folklore. It describes a situation where something is lost or scattered while moving between places. Metaphorically, it refers to efforts or resources that are wasted or dissipated across different locations without yielding a result, or simply used as a playful chant in children's games.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is so optimistic, naive, or desperate that they misinterpret ill-treatment or abuse as an honor or a benefit. It highlights a lack of self-respect or a delusional perspective on a negative situation.