కొట్టవద్దు, తిట్టవద్దు, వట్టలు పిసికితే వాడే చస్తాడు

This proverb warns against underestimating potential dangers based on size or appearance. Just as even a small cobra possesses deadly venom, an opponent or enemy, regardless of how weak or diminished they may seem, can still cause significant harm. It is used to advise caution and vigilance.

This proverb highlights that excessive suspicion or paranoia is more destructive than death itself. While a person destined to die will pass away in due time, a person consumed by doubt or fear suffers and 'dies' mentally every moment, losing their peace of mind immediately.

This proverb highlights the difference in productivity between crops. It means that tall growth in sorghum (jowar) doesn't necessarily mean high yield as it mostly results in fodder (stalk), whereas vigorous growth in paddy leads to a plentiful grain harvest at the bank. It is used metaphorically to say that appearances of growth or activity are only valuable if they result in actual substance or wealth.

This proverb is used to mock someone who is acting as if they are experiencing something for the first time, despite it being a common or recurring task. It points out that even if the tools or environment change, the work remains the same, or that a person is pretending to be naive about something they should already know.

This proverb highlights the futility of certain actions in specific circumstances. It suggests that a truly generous person will give without requiring formal documentation or legal proof, and similarly, no amount of medicine can save someone whose death is certain. It is used to describe situations where rules or remedies become irrelevant due to the inherent nature of the person or the inevitability of the outcome.

This proverb advises caution in both processing information and sharing it. It suggests that one should exercise skepticism toward rumors or hearsay, and even when one holds a firm belief or knows a truth, it is often wise to remain silent rather than speaking out indiscriminately.

This expression is used to advise against physical brawls or intense conflicts. It is often said to settle disputes amicably or to tell people to stop fighting and maintain peace. It emphasizes avoiding violence and unnecessary confrontation.

This is a traditional agricultural and astrological proverb based on the lunar mansions (Nakshatras). It advises against building houses during Vishakha due to heavy rainfall risks, and warns that seeds sown during Pubba will likely rot or be destroyed by excessive rains, emphasizing the importance of timing in farming and construction.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is hyper-sensitive, emotionally unstable, or lacks a sense of humor. It depicts someone who reacts excessively to minor social interactions—taking offense at lighthearted teasing by crying, or becoming physically aggressive when their pride is slightly pricked.

This proverb is used to point out that while some circumstances or people in a situation might be new, the fundamental problems, habits, or nature of the task remain the same. It is often used when someone tries to act as if a situation is completely different just because of minor changes, reminding them that the core reality hasn't changed.