మెట్టరైతు రొట్టెపెట్ట.

This proverb suggests that just as softness is expected in some contexts, in administration or leadership, being too 'soft' or lenient leads to a loss of respect. It implies that a ruler or person in power must be firm to maintain order, otherwise, the subjects or subordinates will disregard their authority.

This expression refers to a situation where a mediator takes advantage of two quarreling parties for their own gain. It is based on a fable where a monkey, asked to settle a dispute between two cats over a piece of bread, eats the entire bread bit by bit while pretending to equalize the portions. It is used to warn against letting a cunning third party intervene in a dispute.

This proverb is used to describe relationships or objects that are inherently sharp or harsh by nature. It suggests that just as a knife's purpose is to cut and it cannot be blunt or soft, a mother-in-law (in traditional contexts) is expected to be strict or demanding, and one should not expect otherwise.

This proverb refers to Miduthambattu, a character known for pseudo-astrology or false predictions. It is used to describe how false promises, bad advice, or unreliable seasonal predictions can lead to the financial ruin and ultimate downfall of hardworking farmers.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone performs a task or a favor for someone else that is completely unnecessary, irrelevant, or disproportionate to their needs. It highlights an act of misplaced effort or a 'remedy' that doesn't fit the recipient.

This proverb describes a person who neither does a good deed themselves nor allows others to do it. It is used to criticize dog-in-the-manger behavior where someone obstructs progress or charity despite having no intention of contributing themselves.

Said by a beggar of one from whom he generally received alms.

This expression is used to indicate that the final outcome or the result is what matters, not who performed the action or the method used. It is often applied in situations where one is indifferent to the identity of a provider as long as their needs are met.

This expression is used to describe a person's selfishness or double standards. It highlights a situation where someone takes the lion's share or the best part of something for themselves while offering only a small, insignificant portion to others.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb related to the 'Uttara' Nakshatra (monsoon rain period). It implies that once the Uttara rains begin, the harvest season is ending or the rains will be so heavy that one should pack up their tools and prepare for the next stage. In a broader sense, it means to act promptly according to the signs of the environment or timing.

Uttara is a specific Vedic rain star (Nakshatra). This proverb is used in an agricultural context, suggesting that when the Uttara rain arrives, it is time to harvest and pack the produce in baskets. It signifies being ready to reap the rewards of one's hard work at the right moment.