మేతకేగాని చేతకు పనికిరాడు

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the effort or risk involved completely cancels out the reward or gain. It refers to cattle that swim across a dangerous river to reach fertile grazing land (Lanka islands), only to burn off all the calories they gained by swimming back, resulting in a zero net gain.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the effort put in is exactly equal to the result obtained, leaving no profit or gain. Just as the energy spent swimming across a river is consumed by the food found on a barren field, it refers to a break-even scenario or a hand-to-mouth existence where nothing is saved.

This proverb emphasizes that just as a fort protects and dignifies a town, a quick and fitting reply (repartee) adds grace and completeness to a conversation. It is used to highlight the importance of effective communication and responsiveness in dialogue.

This expression refers to things that are perfectly matched or sufficient for their specific purpose. It highlights that the holy Ganga provides the best experience for swimming, and 'Garika' grass is the ideal fodder for livestock, suggesting a state of complete satisfaction or finding the right tool/place for a job.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the hard work or effort put into a task is just enough to cover the gains, resulting in no net profit. It signifies a break-even scenario where the struggle and the reward cancel each other out.

This proverb suggests that even old or worn-out things can be made to look attractive with a little bit of decoration or a new layer of paint. It is often used to describe how makeup or new clothes can enhance a person's appearance, or how superficial improvements can hide the age or flaws of an object.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of wit and timely responses in a conversation. Just as a fort provides grandeur and protection to a settlement, an apt and quick-witted reply enhances the quality and elegance of a dialogue.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is very active when it comes to consuming or taking benefits but remains silent or inactive when it is time to work, speak up, or contribute. It highlights a selfish or lazy nature where one is present only for the 'eating' part and absent for the 'effort' part.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the effort or expenditure is exactly equal to the benefit or gain, resulting in no net profit. It specifically refers to a scenario where a person swims across a river (hard work) to let cattle graze on an island, but the energy/resources gained from the grazing are consumed by the effort of swimming back and forth.

This proverb refers to individuals who are lazy or incompetent when it comes to physical labor or getting things done, but are extremely talkative or boastful about their abilities. It is used to describe people who talk a lot to cover up their lack of effort or action.