పిల్ల పెత్తనం, పల్లెటూరి సావాసం

This proverb is used to signify that no matter how powerful, wealthy, or high-ranking a person becomes in the outside world, their relationship and status remain humble and basic within the family, especially towards their parents. It emphasizes humility and the importance of roots.

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 proverb reflects the traditional agricultural wisdom regarding land management. It suggests that upland (metta) should be treated with the care and reverence given to a mother (requiring less constant attention but deep respect), while lowland (palla) should be attended to with the intimacy and constant care given to a wife (requiring frequent monitoring and labor for a good yield).

This proverb indicates that there are multiple ways or methods to achieve a single goal. It is used when someone is stuck or discouraged, reminding them that if one approach fails, there are many other alternatives available to reach the same destination or result.

The first part 'Shila Shasanam' refers to something permanent, unchangeable, and authoritative, like a decree carved in stone. The second part (often corrected to 'Phala Pradakam') implies that such a firm commitment or rule will inevitably yield a significant result or outcome. It is used to describe a promise or a rule that is absolute and will be fulfilled.

This proverb describes a person who neither does a good deed themselves nor allows others to do it. It is used to criticize dog-in-the-manger behavior where someone obstructs progress or charity despite having no intention of contributing themselves.

Said by a beggar of one from whom he generally received alms.

This proverb highlights that assets or properties that are easily accessible to everyone often end up being wasted, damaged, or stolen because they cannot be properly guarded. Just as a field near a village is easily picked over by birds before the owner can harvest it, things that lack privacy or protection are prone to exploitation.

This proverb describes a situation where someone exercises small-scale, insignificant authority or interference in petty matters. It implies that such power is short-lived and lacks real substance or long-term impact.

This proverb is used to criticize situations where people who are perceived as weak or unsuitable for leadership are given authority, suggesting that such leadership will be ineffective or lack real power. Historically, 'Tamballa' referred to a specific community of temple priests who were often seen as non-assertive, and this expression draws a parallel between their perceived nature and the leadership of women (reflecting traditional patriarchal views). It is used to mock a household or organization where the leadership is seen as weak or disorderly.

This expression emphasizes that every place or person has their own distinct importance, status, and rules. It is used to suggest that one should not compare things that are fundamentally different in scale or nature, or to imply that everyone is a 'king' in their own territory.