కూర్చుంటే కుంటి, లేస్తే లేడి

This expression describes a situation where there is no escape from trouble or discomfort regardless of what one does. It is used to refer to a person or situation that is constantly irritating, nagging, or problematic no matter how you try to adjust or handle it.

This proverb is used to mock someone who is extremely weak, lazy, or incompetent, yet makes grand threats or tries to act tough. It highlights the irony of a person who lacks the strength for basic daily tasks pretending to be aggressive or capable of physical confrontation.

This proverb emphasizes the necessity of hard work and the reality of poverty. It means that if one's basic needs are barely met even through constant labor, they certainly cannot be met by remaining inactive. It is used to encourage someone to keep working or to highlight that there is no alternative to effort for survival.

This proverb describes an unstable or extreme financial situation. 'Ugadi' represents a feast and celebration (plenty), while 'Shivaratri' represents fasting and staying awake (poverty/hunger). It is used to describe someone who either lives in luxury when they have money or starves when they don't, lacking a middle ground or consistent lifestyle.

This proverb is used to describe a person who pretends to be weak, lazy, or incapable when asked to do work at home or in the village, but becomes extremely active, energetic, and agile when it concerns their own interests or outside activities. It highlights the hypocrisy of selective effort.

This proverb highlights the struggle of the working class and the necessity of labor for survival. 'The pot burns' refers to cooking food on a stove, while 'the stomach burns' refers to the pain of hunger. It is used to emphasize that one must work every day to avoid starvation.

This expression describes the behavior of people who are inconsistent or opportunistic in their relationships. It refers to someone who treats you as a useful friend (small tool) when they need something, but acts sharp or hostile (sickle) when they don't, or someone whose stance changes drastically based on availability and convenience.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of communication and social interaction. It suggests that if you do not speak or express yourself properly, you will not find a place for yourself in society or in a specific situation. It is often used to encourage people to speak up or to highlight that social status and inclusion are built through speech and reputation.

This proverb suggests that when someone is angry or aggressive, adopting a humble or submissive posture can prevent a conflict. It is used to teach that humility and avoiding provocation can defuse dangerous situations or hostile behavior from others.

This expression is used to describe someone who appears calm, beautiful, or well-behaved while stationary or silent, but turns out to be aggressive, loud, or ill-mannered once they start acting or speaking. It is often used to warn that appearances can be deceptive.