కూడుండగానే కులాలవాళ్ళ కుడిపైట మారదు

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 signifies that once something is completely ruined, lost, or once a person's reputation is destroyed, it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to restore it to its original state. It is used to caution against negligence or to describe the permanent nature of certain failures.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is being cheated or robbed in broad daylight, or right in front of their eyes while they are fully aware. It signifies extreme audacity or boldness in deception, suggesting that the thief or deceiver is so daring that they act even when the victim is watching.

Make use of your opportunities before they pass from you.

This proverb describes a greedy or gluttonous person who cannot rest as long as there is something left to consume. It is used to highlight an obsessive nature over resources or an inability to save for later because of an immediate desire to indulge.

This is a sarcastic or satirical expression used to describe someone who has unrealistic, contradictory, or impossible expectations. It depicts a person who wants to keep their resources (food) untouched while expecting those they are responsible for (children) to stay quiet and still without needing any sustenance. It is used to mock stinginess or illogical management.

To wish for two things opposed to each other. You can't eat your cake and have it too. 15 ( 113 )

This expression is used to describe an impossible or highly selfish desire where someone wants to enjoy the benefits of something without any of the associated costs or natural consequences. In this context, it refers to wanting children to be healthy and grow (like sturdy logs) while simultaneously wishing that they never consume the food in the house. It highlights a paradoxical or stingy mindset.

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 describes people who forget their roots, identity, or those who helped them once they achieve financial stability or prosperity. It is used to criticize ungratefulness and the tendency to distance oneself from one's origins after attaining wealth.

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 is used to point out that superficial preparation or mere external changes do not equate to the actual completion of a task or the arrival of a significant event. Just as a festival requires rituals, food, and celebration beyond just cleaning the floor, success requires hard work beyond just the initial setup.