మింటికన్నా పొడుగు, నగరికన్నా ధాష్టీకం లేవు

This proverb highlights the loss of self-respect and the social stigma traditionally associated with 'Illarikam' (the practice of a son-in-law living in his wife's parents' house). It suggests that even performing menial labor is more dignified than living on the mercy of in-laws, where one might be treated like a servant or face constant ridicule.

Sometimes, one’s place of work or stay elsewhere is better than living in one’s own house, especially when domestic harmony is absent.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is blinded by power or arrogance. Just as a physical cataract prevents a person from seeing the world, an oppressive or tyrannical mindset prevents a person from seeing what is fair, moral, or just. It emphasizes that power-hungry individuals often lose their sense of right and wrong.

This expression is used to describe a middle-ground position or an intermediary status where one is subordinate to the top authority but holds power over others. It is often used as a riddle answer for 'the finger' (the middle finger is next to the forefinger) or in a social context to describe middle management or individuals who are stuck between two different levels of hierarchy.

This proverb is used to describe the absolute power and authority of the government or those in power. Just as there is nothing higher than the sky, there is no force more dominant or overbearing than the law or the state's authority. It reflects on the helplessness of common people against the might of the ruling establishment.

This proverb is used sarcastically to describe a situation where a person is so troubled or miserable at home that they find more peace or safety staying elsewhere. It can also imply a state of homelessness or having nothing left to lose, suggesting that one's house is no longer a viable shelter.

This expression is used to criticize someone who speaks without manners, refinement, or consideration. It suggests that people who use foul or rude language do so because they have no self-control or 'culture' in their speech, as if their tongue is simply itching to say something inappropriate.

This proverb is used to describe people who act with arrogance, tyranny, or brute force. It implies that just as it is naturally impossible for a blind eye to see, it is impossible for a person acting out of sheer dominance or malice to follow the path of justice or ethics.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone's attempt to look beautiful or sophisticated results in a loss of dignity or culture. It highlights a scenario where external decoration or modern pretense leads to the destruction of one's innate grace or traditional values. It is often used to criticize superficiality.

Said ironically of an ugly ruffian.

This proverb highlights the loss of self-respect often experienced by a man who moves into his wife's parental home (Illarikam). It suggests that living in poverty or isolation (Mularikam) while maintaining one's dignity is far superior to the dependency and potential humiliation faced when living under the roof of in-laws.