మొగుడు శయ్యకు పిలిచినా రాని మగువ, మిండడు వలుకలమిట్ట కీడ్చినా పోవును.

This expression is used to describe a situation or an argument that is complicated and difficult to settle. It refers to a dilemma where one is unsure whether a dispute is manageable (caught) or completely out of control and slippery (not caught), highlighting a state of confusion or persistent trouble.

This proverb emphasizes the lasting impact of one's words. While time inevitably moves forward and situations change, the promises made or the words spoken (whether kind or hurtful) stay in people's memories and hold permanent value or consequences.

This proverb is used to describe things that are particularly harsh, intense, or uncontrollable. Just as the sun feels much hotter and more piercing immediately after a cloud cover passes, it is traditionally suggested that a woman who has lost her husband's protection or social restraint might act with fierce independence or unchecked intensity. It is often used to remark on the stinging nature of a situation or a person's sharp behavior.

This expression is used to describe situations where someone takes undue advantage of a person's kindness, patience, or close relationship. It refers to a lack of respect or crossing boundaries simply because the other person is forgiving or authoritative yet gentle.

This expression emphasizes the lasting impact of one's words compared to the fleeting nature of time. It is used to remind someone to be careful with their speech or promises, as people will remember what was said long after the moment has passed.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone has suffered a loss or been exploited, and no matter how much you try to reach out or rectify it, the damage is irreversible. It is often applied to someone who has gone missing or something that has been stolen/consumed, implying it is futile to expect a response or return.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone who is not committed or is only temporarily involved in a task will not provide even the smallest help or care. It implies that if there is no genuine bond or responsibility, one cannot expect any support or maintenance from that person.

This expression emphasizes that true companionship and a husband's status are earned through love, mutual understanding, and emotional connection rather than through the mere ritual of marriage or tying a sacred thread. It is used to highlight that legal or ritualistic bonding is secondary to emotional compatibility.

This proverb is used to describe a situation or person that looks competent or sufficient on the outside but fails to fulfill their primary responsibilities or provide the expected benefits. In a literal sense, it refers to a spouse who maintains the social status of marriage but fails to provide emotional, physical, or financial support. Metaphorically, it is used for any object or person that is decorative but useless in practice.

This proverb highlights the folly of prioritizing caste-based pride or prejudices over one's own survival and basic needs. It warns that while a person might sacrifice their livelihood (koodu) to uphold caste rigidity, the caste community as an entity will not provide for them when they are hungry. It is used to advise people to prioritize practical necessities and humanity over social divisions.