మెచ్చి మేకతోలు కోరి గొర్రెతోలు కప్పుతారు

This proverb is used to say that one cannot change their true nature or acquire strength/character merely by changing their outward appearance or pretending to be someone they are not. Just as a donkey wearing a tiger skin doesn't gain the ferocity of a tiger, a person lacking inherent talent or character cannot achieve greatness through deception.

This expression means that a person's inherent nature or character does not change simply by changing their outward appearance or status. It is used to point out that dressing up or pretending to be something grander doesn't remove one's basic flaws or original habits.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is overly cautious or suspicious about getting a fair deal. Historically, a cobbler (godari) would know every flaw in the leather, so a customer would be extra wary of being cheated or given inferior scraps. It signifies dealing with an expert in a way that involves extreme scrutiny or hesitation.

This proverb is used to describe a person who tries to show off or maintain a high social status they cannot afford, and in the process of pretending, they lose the basic necessities they already had. It serves as a warning against vanity and prioritizing false prestige over practical reality.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is deceived by superficial praise or false appreciation. It suggests that while people may outwardly compliment or flatter you, their underlying intentions might involve imposing burdens or exploiting you under the guise of 'honor' or 'favor'.

This proverb describes a situation where someone offers praise or appreciation initially, but follows it up with a suggestion or action that is actually insulting, downgrading, or harmful. It is used when a person's supposed 'reward' or 'compliment' turns out to be a burden or a mockery of their true status.

This expression is used to describe a situation where one attempts to get something from someone who is already in dire need of it themselves, or when one expects a bargain from a person who barely has enough resources to survive. It highlights the irony or futility of seeking a specific resource from a source that is its primary consumer or is impoverished.

This proverb is used to describe an inherent nature or character that cannot be changed regardless of effort, education, or external polishing. It is similar to the English expression 'A leopard cannot change its spots.'

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone tries to hide their true nature or incompetence by putting on a false appearance of strength, wisdom, or authority. It implies that inner character cannot be changed by superficial outward changes.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the resources or tools available are completely ineffective or useless for the task at hand. Just as a lame horse cannot run and a leather sword cannot cut, it refers to having incompetent help or inadequate equipment.