మీసం పస మగ మూతికి

In Telugu culture, a mustache is often seen as a symbol of pride, dignity, and masculinity. This proverb is used to criticize someone who lacks a sense of honor or fails to stand up for themselves despite their outward appearance of strength or maturity. It suggests that external symbols of dignity are useless if one does not possess the inner character or 'Rosham' (self-respect/righteous anger) to back it up.

This proverb is used to criticize hypocrisy or superficiality in religious or disciplined practices. It suggests that merely performing an action that looks like a sacrifice (like eating leaves/simple food) doesn't count as true fasting or devotion if it is simply one's natural habit or lacks the underlying intent. It is often applied to people who pretend to be pious or frugal by doing things that actually cost them nothing.

This expression describes a situation where someone incurs a permanent or significant loss for a very small, trivial, or temporary gain. It highlights foolishness or lack of foresight where the cost of an action far outweighs the meager benefit received.

This proverb highlights what constitutes the true value or essence of something. Just as moonlight defines the beauty of a night, the health and abundance of the grain-heads (ears) determine the success and worth of a crop. It is used to emphasize that the final result or the core feature is what gives a thing its true significance.

This rhetorical question is used to point out that one cannot expect a specific quality or result from a source that is fundamentally different. It highlights that every object or person has their own inherent nature, and it is foolish to expect something contrary to that nature.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone tries to assert superiority or dominance, and the other person responds with an equally boastful or defiant retort. It signifies that one person is not inferior to the other and can match their ego or status with their own. It is often used to highlight stubbornness or a tit-for-tat attitude in an argument.

This expression is used to describe a situation where there is a lot of external show, pomp, or decoration, but the core essence or quality is lacking. It refers to something that looks impressive on the outside but is disappointing in reality.

This expression is used to mock hypothetical 'if' and 'but' arguments that are completely impossible or unrealistic. It highlights the pointlessness of speculating on situations that can never happen, similar to the English idiom 'If my aunt had wheels, she'd be a bicycle'.

This expression highlights the traditional roles and values in a family. It suggests that a woman brings prosperity and grace (like the Goddess Lakshmi) to a home, while the man represents the wealth and strength (like gold) that provides security. It is often used to emphasize the importance of both genders in maintaining a balanced household.

This expression emphasizes that a true man is one who is generous or helps others obtain what they need. It suggests that if a person lacks the quality of charity or helpfulness, their outward signs of masculinity (like a mustache) are meaningless. It is used to criticize those who have the means to help but lack the will.