మాడపన్ను కొరకు మహిషంబునమ్మితి, మడమసూరి వృత్తి మాలవృత్తి

This expression suggests that behaviors or deeds that are contrary to moral laws, social ethics, or natural justice are destined to fail and will not endure for long. It is often used to remind someone that unethical paths do not lead to lasting success.

This expression suggests that basic sustenance and wealth (symbolized by 'anna' or rice/food) are the root causes of all other types of arrogance or ego. When a person is well-fed and prosperous, they are more likely to develop pride in other aspects of their life. It is often used to counsel humility or to describe how sudden wealth can lead to boastful behavior.

This proverb refers to the Silk Cotton tree (Burugu), whose fruit contains only fluff and no edible pulp. It is used to describe a situation where something appears grand, impressive, or promising from the outside (like the height of the tree), but is ultimately useless or provides no real benefit to the seeker (like the parrot). It warns against being deceived by outward appearances or high expectations from things that lack substance.

This expression is used to signify that events from the past often happen again in a similar way in the present or future. It is used in political, social, or personal contexts to suggest that human nature or patterns of behavior lead to recurring outcomes.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is so perverse or nihilistic that they intentionally refuse to do something, even if it benefits them or others, just to ensure that no one—good or bad—gains anything from the situation. It characterizes a 'dog in the manger' attitude or a self-destructive spitefulness.

* I megilori alberi sono i più battuti. † On ne jette des pierres qu'à l'arbre chargé de fruits. : Aspetta tempo e loco à far la tua vendetta, che la non si fa mai ben in fretta.

This expression describes a situation where someone who lacks the financial resources or capacity starts thinking about performing grand acts of charity or righteousness. It highlights the irony of intending to give when one has nothing to give, often used to point out impracticality or the tendency of people to think of noble deeds only when they are unable to execute them.

This expression suggests that basic sustenance or surplus of food/wealth is the root cause of all other types of pride and arrogance. When one's belly is full and basic needs are over-satisfied, it leads to the development of other forms of vanity or ego. It is often used to caution against the over-indulgence or pride that comes with prosperity.

This proverb suggests that the cleanliness, organization, and atmosphere of a home reflect the personality, management skills, and discipline of the woman of the house. It is used to imply that surroundings often reveal the true nature of the person responsible for them.

This expression highlights how different tastes or preferences suit different characters. While demons (Asuras) indulge in alcohol for pleasure, gods (Suras) find bliss in the classical melody of Madhyamavati raga. It is used to describe how a refined person finds joy in art or spirituality, whereas a crude person finds it in base indulgences.

This expression refers to the humble beginnings of something that eventually becomes grand or vast. It is used to signify that great results often arise from very small origins, emphasizing that size at the start does not determine final potential.