కుంచెలో కదుళ్లు పోసినట్టు

This expression is used to describe an action that is intended to destroy something completely from its foundation or to harm someone under the guise of helping. Just as pouring hot water on a dug-up root ensures the plant will never grow back, this refers to absolute destruction or irreversible damage.

This expression is used to describe a situation where effort or resources are being completely wasted on something that cannot be salvaged or retained. It refers to a futile action where despite continuous input, there is no result or progress because the foundation is fundamentally flawed or broken.

This proverb signifies that certain actions or words gain value, legitimacy, or recognition only when they come from an authoritative source or a person of high stature. It is often used to describe situations where a valid point is ignored until an important person validates it.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone helps or shows kindness to a wicked or ungrateful person, who in turn ends up harming the benefactor. It highlights the futility and danger of nurturing someone with an inherently malicious nature.

Showing kindness to an ungrateful person.

This expression is used to describe a situation where people or objects are constantly moving and never settling down in one place. Just as spindles (kadullu) are pointed and thin, they keep shifting and rolling when placed in a container, making it impossible to keep them steady or organized. It is often used to refer to hyperactive children or a restless group of people.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone's actions or words worsen an already volatile or angry situation. Just as pouring clarified butter (ghee) into a fire makes the flames roar higher, this refers to 'adding fuel to the fire' or instigating someone who is already furious.

This expression is used to describe a perfect, tight, or snug fit. In olden days, a 'Kuncham' was a grain measure; when filled precisely with grain or seeds, there is no extra space left. It is often used to describe someone with very even, closely set teeth or a crowd that is packed tightly together.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone puts in a lot of effort or goes through a process, but the final result is completely ruined or made useless by a foolish mistake or poor quality ingredients. It signifies wasted effort resulting in something unpalatable or unsuccessful.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone unknowingly or foolishly seeks protection or places their trust in the very person who intends to harm or rob them. It signifies an act of extreme negligence or lack of common sense.

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks the skill or knowledge to perform a task but still attempts it, only to end up ruining it completely. It highlights incompetence or a lack of basic common sense in a specific situation.