మిగిలితే మిండడౌతాడు అన్నట్లు

This proverb suggests that wealth transcends social hierarchies and caste boundaries. It implies that a person's financial status often carries more weight and influence than their traditional social standing or lineage, effectively stating that 'money is the ultimate power'.

A rich man is sought after by all. Rich people are every where at home. (German.)†

This proverb describes a situation where someone performs a task or shows emotion without any genuine interest or sincerity, usually because they are doing it purely for money or as a chore. It implies that artificial effort lacks the depth or results of true passion and sincere work.

This is a popular Telugu proverb related to the Anuradha Nakshatram (constellation) during the monsoon season. It is a metaphorical way of saying that the rainwater during this specific period is so strengthening and medicinal that it gives a woman the physical strength and vigor associated with a man. It highlights the perceived health benefits of the first rains of this season.

This proverb is used to describe people who have nothing to lose or are extremely stubborn. Just as a dead, leafless stump (stubborn tree) cannot be swayed by the wind, and a person with no clothes or possessions cannot be looted by thieves, an individual who is already at their lowest or has no attachments is immune to threats or losses.

This is a popular Telugu proverb or folk belief regarding the Ashlesha Karti (a specific period in the traditional agricultural calendar). It is a hyperbolic way to describe the intense power and medicinal qualities attributed to the rains during this period. It implies that these rains are so transformative and rejuvenating that they can perform the impossible, like changing one's gender. Practically, it highlights the importance of these rains for health and agriculture.

This proverb emphasizes the necessity of hard work and physical labor to achieve results. It implies that if one engages in agriculture or any significant task (symbolized by the bullock), they must be prepared to get their hands dirty and work the land (the soil) to see success.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone has lost almost everything, and what remains is trivial or insignificant. It highlights a state of near-total loss or failure where the little that is left is not of much value.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of completely finishing a task or treatment. Just as a small amount of leftover lime (used in betel leaves) can dry up and become useless, or a partially cured disease can relapse and become fatal, one should never leave problems or responsibilities half-done. It is used to advise someone to be thorough and ensure complete resolution of an issue.

This proverb highlights the difference between salvageable and irreparable damage. It is often used to compare relationships or situations: strong bonds (iron) can be repaired after a conflict, but delicate trust or certain reputations (clay) are permanently destroyed once broken.

This expression refers to a situation where someone is spared or survives a calamity while others perish, or more commonly, it describes a goat that is kept for breeding/milk rather than being slaughtered for meat. In a metaphorical sense, it signifies a survivor who carries the responsibility of nurturing or continuing a legacy.

* Der Eine schlägt den Nagel ein, der Andere hängt den Hut daran. 3 ( 17 )