మెట్టనున్నా ఏనుగే, పల్లానున్న ఏనుగే

This proverb suggests that practical experience is the best teacher. Once you are actually performing a task or in a situation, you learn how to handle it through direct involvement rather than just theoretical knowledge. It is used to emphasize that one learns the nuances of a job only by doing it.

This expression is used to describe someone who looks dull, lifeless, sickly, or very weak. Just as a cotton wick becomes heavy, dark, and loses its fluffiness when soaked in thick castor oil, a person who appears drained of energy or spirit is compared to it.

This proverb reflects the traditional agricultural wisdom regarding land management. It suggests that upland (metta) should be treated with the care and reverence given to a mother (requiring less constant attention but deep respect), while lowland (palla) should be attended to with the intimacy and constant care given to a wife (requiring frequent monitoring and labor for a good yield).

This proverb emphasizes the importance of accountability and carefulness in spending or giving away resources. Even if you are losing or donating something, you should still keep track of the value or amount to avoid reckless waste and maintain financial discipline.

This proverb emphasizes that greatness and intrinsic value do not change based on circumstances or surroundings. A person of high character or status remains significant whether they are in a low position or a high one.

This proverb is used to describe people who are always restless or constantly engaged in some activity. Just as an elephant's trunk is always moving or exploring and a priest's hand is constantly involved in rituals, prayers, or receiving offerings, some individuals have a habit of staying busy or meddling in something at all times.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a powerful person or an oppressor remains indifferent to the pleas, suffering, or tears of the weak. It suggests that once someone has a decisive advantage or control over another, they are unlikely to show mercy just because the victim is lamenting their fate.

This proverb is used to describe a situation or project that is doomed to fail from the start. Just as a healthy living child would not smell of decay, a successful endeavor should not show signs of failure or corruption in its early stages. It is often used to criticize something that is obviously failing despite claims to the contrary.

This expression is used to describe a person of great stature, wealth, or talent who remains superior or significant even during their lowest points or downfall. It suggests that a person's inherent greatness or previous high status still commands respect and is incomparable to the peak level of an ordinary person.

A man much superior to another.

This proverb signifies that a person's inherent value, character, or status does not change based on their current circumstances or location. Whether in a high position or a low one, greatness remains greatness.