కులటబిడ్డ కొడుకగునా, మెరుపు దీపమగునా?

This expression is used to describe a situation where a child or a person who was once small, insignificant, or looked down upon has now grown up and reached a significant milestone or status in life. It emphasizes the passage of time and the natural progression of growth.

This is an old proverb used to express that certain things are inherently unreliable, unstable, or temporary by nature. Just as a flash of lightning cannot serve as a steady source of light for a home, something born out of instability or lack of character cannot be expected to fulfill a permanent, dutiful role. It is used to caution against relying on things or people that lack a solid foundation or integrity.

This proverb emphasizes the value of hard work and its rewards. It suggests that one should toil rigorously and tirelessly (like a buffalo in the fields) during their working years or phase so that they can eventually enjoy a life of luxury, comfort, and dignity (like a lord or nobleman).

This proverb is used to describe an irreversible situation or a permanent loss of utility. Just as hitting or damaging a tree or wood doesn't turn it into a supportive house pillar, some actions or punishments cannot fix a fundamental flaw or undo a mistake that has already occurred.

This proverb is used to explain that certain things cannot be forced and require their own natural time to happen. Just as a raw fruit cannot be forced to ripen instantly through physical force or aggression, results in life often require patience and the right conditions rather than coercion.

This proverb is used to mock someone who makes an obvious or inevitable prediction that covers all possible outcomes. It describes a situation where a person states the obvious as if it were a profound insight, or takes a stance where they cannot be proven wrong because they have accounted for every alternative.

This proverb is used to explain that some things cannot be rushed or forced. Just as a fruit must mature naturally to be sweet, certain results, skills, or changes in behavior require time and internal readiness rather than external pressure or force.

This proverb highlights that fate or luck favors two extremes: either those who have nothing to lose and must work extremely hard (the widow's son) or those who are born with immense privilege (the king's son). It is used to describe how people at the very bottom of the social ladder and the very top often end up being the most successful or influential, albeit for different reasons.

This proverb highlights the difference between superficial appearance and genuine substance. Just as swelling (edema) is a sign of illness and should not be mistaken for physical strength or healthy weight, a temporary or illicit relationship cannot be equated to the stability and sanctity of a committed marriage. It is used to point out that false appearances or temporary situations cannot replace reality or merit.

This proverb is used to emphasize that certain essential, labor-intensive, or time-sensitive tasks require immediate payment or resources and cannot be deferred or done for free. It specifically refers to agricultural labor (transplanting paddy) where workers must be paid promptly to ensure the work is completed on time.