కూడు తిని కులమెంచినట్లు

This proverb suggests that wealth transcends social hierarchies and caste boundaries. It implies that a person's financial status often carries more weight and influence than their traditional social standing or lineage, effectively stating that 'money is the ultimate power'.

A rich man is sought after by all. Rich people are every where at home. (German.)†

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone performs a completely useless or harmful action and then tries to follow it up with something normal or helpful to cover it up. It signifies a futile attempt to rectify a foolish mistake or refers to an action that yields no benefit despite the effort.

This proverb describes a person who completely ignores the original purpose of a task or instruction and instead focuses on their own comfort or personal interests. It is used to mock someone's irresponsibility or lack of focus when they are sent on an errand but get distracted by something trivial or beneficial to themselves.

This expression is used to describe a person who, due to arrogance, success, or intoxication (literal or metaphorical), forgets their roots, upbringing, or social boundaries. It refers to someone acting recklessly and losing their sense of identity or responsibility.

This proverb emphasizes gratitude and reverence towards life's essentials. It suggests that one should never find fault with or be ungrateful for water (which sustains life) and one's mother (who gives life), as they are considered sacred and beyond judgment.

This proverb is used to describe a person who displays ingratitude or makes baseless complaints despite receiving something good or beneficial. It refers to someone who is habitually dissatisfied or dishonest about their experiences, often finding fault even in the most pleasant circumstances.

This expression is used to describe an experience or activity that is dull, uninteresting, or lacks any satisfaction. Just as eating tasteless food provides no pleasure despite fulfilling a necessity, it refers to performing a task or attending an event that is completely bland and monotonous.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone commits a mistake or falls into bad habits and consequently forgets their roots, values, or original identity. It specifically refers to how a single improper act or a lapse in judgment can lead to a complete loss of self-respect or social standing.

This proverb highlights the folly of prioritizing caste-based pride or prejudices over one's own survival and basic needs. It warns that while a person might sacrifice their livelihood (koodu) to uphold caste rigidity, the caste community as an entity will not provide for them when they are hungry. It is used to advise people to prioritize practical necessities and humanity over social divisions.

This proverb describes a situation where an attempt to gain profit or solve a problem ends up causing a total loss, often exceeding the original capital. It is used when someone's greed or a bad investment results in losing even what they originally had, much like a hole in a bag leaking out both the profit and the contents.