కూలి కూటికి రాదు, లేకి చేతికి రాడు

This expression highlights the cultural importance of the 'Bavamardi' (brother-in-law) in Telugu families. It suggests that material wealth cannot replace the joy, companionship, and dynamic social support provided by certain close familial bonds, particularly the playful and supportive relationship shared with a brother-in-law.

This proverb describes a state of dilemma or dissatisfaction where one finds faults in both the old ways/things and the new alternatives. It is used when a person is stuck in a transition phase, unable to rely on past experiences or tools while finding the newer ones ineffective or difficult to adapt to.

This proverb highlights practical caution and situational awareness. A crying person often wipes their nose or eyes with their left hand, potentially splashing tears or mucus on those nearby. Similarly, a tailor's right hand moves vigorously while sewing (traditionally with a needle or pulling thread), risking an accidental poke or hit to someone sitting too close. It is used to advise people to stay away from positions where they might inadvertently get hurt or soiled by someone else's actions.

This proverb is used to describe things that are temporary or unreliable. Palm wood burns very quickly and turns to ash before it can be carried home for use, and a toddy tapper's wife is often busy helping her husband in the fields or with sales, making her unavailable for other chores. It signifies that certain efforts are futile because the nature of the object or person is inherently unsuitable for the desired outcome.

This expression refers to someone who is extremely stingy or miserly. It describes a person who does not even eat properly (to avoid spending) nor do they ever offer a single morsel of food to others. It is used to criticize someone's lack of charity and their extreme parsimony.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one's income or earnings are so meager that they don't even cover basic necessities or the overhead costs of living. It highlights extreme poverty or an unprofitable venture where the returns are insufficient to meet even the smallest expenses.

This is an old proverb reflecting historical social prejudices. It suggests that associating with certain groups (historically based on caste or occupation) might lead to complications or is unsuitable for one's status. In a modern context, it is used to caution against keeping company with people who have incompatible lifestyles or those who might cause trouble, though it is largely considered outdated due to its discriminatory roots.

This proverb advises caution in social and financial dealings. If you make a promise to a poor person and fail to keep it, their despair may lead to bitterness or social shame for you. Conversely, if you give a wealthy or powerful person space (or a foothold in your affairs/property), they may use their influence to eventually usurp or dominate you.

This proverb is used to suggest that certain tasks require maturity, experience, and patience rather than just youthful energy or haste. Just as farming needs seasoned knowledge to get a good harvest, important life goals cannot be achieved through impulsive actions or lack of experience. It emphasizes the value of wisdom over raw enthusiasm.

This proverb highlights the endless nature of certain obligations. Just as one continues to make offerings to the Goddess throughout life, one's responsibilities and gifts toward a sister (or daughter) in a traditional family setup are perpetual and can never be considered 'settled' or 'paid off' completely.