మక్కీకి మక్కీ

This proverb emphasizes that physical strength is not an exclusive possession of anyone and that intelligence or clever strategy (yukti) can overcome raw power (shakti). It is used to encourage using one's wit to solve problems that seem physically impossible or daunting.

This proverb highlights that if someone tells a lie, they must have a very good memory to remember exactly what they said, so they don't contradict themselves later and get caught. It is used to suggest that honesty is easier because one doesn't have to keep track of various fabrications.

For a true worship of gods, it is not the external paraphernalia that is as important as devotion.

This expression refers to contributing one's small or humble part towards a much larger cause. It originates from the Ramayana, where a squirrel helped Lord Rama build the bridge to Lanka by carrying tiny grains of sand. It is used to describe a modest contribution made with sincere dedication.

This expression is used to describe a small contribution or help offered towards a larger cause or project. It originates from the Ramayana, where a squirrel helped Lord Rama build the bridge to Lanka by carrying small grains of sand. It signifies that even a tiny effort, when done with sincerity and devotion, is valuable and significant.

This proverb suggests that when fate or bad luck is destined to strike, no amount of seeking refuge in holy places or taking precautions can prevent the outcome. It is used to describe situations where someone faces inevitable trouble despite their best efforts to avoid it.

This proverb suggests that performing rituals or tasks without genuine intent or sincerity is a waste of resources and effort. Just as offering leaves (patri) during worship is useless if one lacks devotion (bhakti), any action done mechanically without heart is unproductive.

This expression is used to describe a small but sincere contribution to a much larger cause. It originates from the Ramayana, where a small squirrel helped Lord Rama build the bridge to Lanka by carrying tiny grains of sand. It is used when someone wants to humbly acknowledge that while their help might be minimal in the grand scheme of things, it is offered with great sincerity.

This is a popular saying in South India that characterizes the three main schools of Hindu philosophy based on their perceived primary focus. It suggests that Madhvas (followers of Dvaita) give importance to ritualistic offerings and food, Vaishnavas (followers of Vishishtadvaita) are known for their intense emotional devotion, and Advaitins (followers of Monism) are recognized for their intellectual reasoning and logical discourse.

This proverb describes people who claim to have high moral values or a lack of desire only because they lack the opportunity to indulge. It mocks temporary or hypocritical renunciation that arises from necessity rather than genuine conviction.