కుప్ప విత్తనాలు చప్పనారు

This proverb highlights that one can only exercise authority or manage affairs if they possess the necessary resources or capital. In an agricultural context, it means without seeds to sow, there is no farm to manage; in a broader sense, it implies that financial stability is the foundation of influence and leadership.

This agricultural proverb signifies that seeds sown during the Magha rain cycle (Karthi) do not yield a proper harvest; rather, they fail or remain as mere spots in the soil. It is used to emphasize the importance of timing and that efforts made at the wrong time lead to wasted labor and failure.

This expression refers to a person who is extremely stubborn, persistent, or someone who sticks to their principles or opinions no matter how much pressure is applied. In nature, the Ooduga (Alangium salviifolium) seed is known for being very hard and difficult to crack or change, serving as a metaphor for an inflexible or highly resilient personality.

* Chi tocca la pece, s'imbratta.

This proverb emphasizes the critical importance of timing and punctuality. It suggests that certain tasks must be performed during their designated time to be successful. Even if one is unable to do it physically, the intent and preparation should be there, highlighting that missing a seasonal opportunity leads to failure.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a massive investment or effort results in a very small or disproportionate return. It signifies a loss or a failed venture where the output is significantly less than the input.

This satirical proverb describes a situation where someone is outwardly claimed to be 'doing well' while actually being in a state of utter ruin or misery. It is used to mock people who try to paint a positive picture of a disastrous situation, or to describe someone who is surviving by consuming their future resources (seeds) and dignity (funeral clothes).

This proverb describes a person's extreme selfishness or hypocrisy. It refers to someone who wants others to suffer losses while they themselves profit excessively, even at the expense of others. It is used to mock people who display a 'mine is mine, and yours is also mine' attitude or those who wish for others' ruin while seeking their own prosperity.

This proverb is used to describe a person who behaves hypocritically. It refers to someone who hides their own faults or avoids responsibility (hiding behind a screen) but gives moral lectures and acts like a paragon of virtue (pile of virtues) when judging others.

This expression is used to mock someone's intelligence or behavior, implying that their brain is empty or contains only useless 'seeds' instead of wisdom. It is often used to describe someone who is being foolish, empty-headed, or lacks common sense.

Coming from the same bad stock.

This proverb highlights the value of resilience and experience. Just as seeds dried and hardened through many summers become tough enough to survive severe droughts, people who have faced and overcome numerous hardships gain the strength and wisdom to withstand any future adversity.