లంకనానికి పెడితే పథ్యానికి దిగుతుంది

This proverb is used to warn against wasting money on people who have no real connection or loyalty to you. It implies that investing resources in outsiders or ungrateful individuals yields no benefit and results in a total loss, much like spending money on jewelry for a stranger.

This proverb highlights that outward displays of piety or religious symbols do not necessarily change one's internal character or base desires. It is used to point out hypocrisy or the futility of using external rituals to mask internal flaws.

This proverb is used to warn against interfering in others' affairs or trying to show off authority where it isn't needed. It suggests that such overreaching behavior often leads to losing one's dignity or ending up with menial tasks (symbolized by the 'dutta' or small pot). It is used to advise someone to mind their own business to avoid embarrassment.

This expression is used to describe a person who is very eager and first to arrive when it is time to eat, but very lazy or hesitant when it comes to hygiene, work, or taking a bath. It highlights a character that prioritizes pleasure over duty or cleanliness.

Just as a medicine is only effective when a strict diet (pathyam) is followed, speech only gains value and effectiveness when it is truthful. It emphasizes that integrity is as essential to character as discipline is to health.

This expression refers to the sequence of daily routines or the priority of tasks. It is often used to describe someone who is very punctual or eager for food (being first at the table) but perhaps less enthusiastic about chores or preparation (being last to bathe). In a broader sense, it highlights a tendency to prioritize personal comfort or enjoyment over effort.

This expression is used to remind others that being economically disadvantaged or lacking wealth does not mean a person lacks self-respect, dignity, or cultural identity. It suggests that poverty affects one's physical needs, but should not diminish their social standing or the respect they deserve.

This expression is used to describe someone who tries to negotiate or compromise when they are asked to do something difficult or extreme. It refers to a person who, when told to fast completely (Lankanam) for health reasons, tries to negotiate down to a restricted diet (Pathyam) instead of following the full instruction.

This proverb advises that financial matters and wealth should be kept private or hidden to avoid envy or theft, whereas agricultural activities and farming techniques should be shared openly and discussed with others to gain knowledge, help, and ensure a better yield.

This proverb is used to emphasize that once someone chooses a morally corrupt or deviant path (pedadari), it is as incurable as a terminal illness. It suggests that behavioral reformation is often impossible once a person is set in their bad ways, just as some great diseases have no cure.