మొసలిబావా కడియమే పోయింది కానీ, కాలైనా ఇంతే కదా!

This expression describes a person who is extremely stingy or miserly. It refers to someone who is willing to take or consume resources from others but is unwilling to provide even the smallest hospitality (like a little water to wash hands) in return, or someone who avoids any responsibility or cost after enjoying a benefit.

This proverb is often used to describe items or situations that require specific conditions to become functional. In a literal sense, it refers to a rough wool blanket (gongali) which is stiff when dry but becomes flexible and usable only when damp. Figuratively, it describes people who only work or cooperate under specific pressure or when their basic needs are met.

This expression is used to describe a situation where people make a grand display of wealth or status, but lack the basic means to provide actual help or sustenance when needed. It critiques those who maintain a false facade of prosperity while failing to fulfill fundamental needs.

This proverb highlights the importance of context and boundaries. While a relationship might be informal and friendly (calling someone 'Bava'), using that intimacy in a place where it could lead to suspicion or theft (like a garden where one might steal produce) is unwise. It warns that certain behaviors, though generally acceptable, are inappropriate in specific sensitive situations.

This proverb is used to convey that having something imperfect or flawed is better than having nothing at all. It is similar to the English expression 'Something is better than nothing'.

Better a bare foot than no foot at all. Better a blind horse than an empty halter. (Dutch.)*

This expression suggests being misled or deceived by superficial or external appearances without understanding the deeper reality or the dangers within. It is used to warn someone not to be swayed by outward glitter or initial impressions, as they can often be a facade for trouble or betrayal.

This proverb highlights hypocrisy or situational convenience. It refers to someone who wants to maintain a relationship or friendship in public but refuses to acknowledge it when there is work to be done or when their personal interests (like guarding a harvest) are at stake. It is used to describe people who are friendly only when it doesn't cost them anything.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone had high expectations for a grand event or opportunity, but instead suffered a disgusting or humiliating experience. It highlights the gap between promised grandeur and a disappointing or insulting reality.

This proverb emphasizes that practical experience is essential to truly understand or judge something. Just as you cannot judge a dish without tasting it or know the depth of a pond without stepping into it, you cannot understand the complexities or difficulties of a situation or task until you are personally involved in it.

This expression is used to convey that even when a person of great stature, talent, or status faces hardships or loses their wealth/power, their inherent dignity, qualities, and reputation remain intact. External circumstances might weaken the person, but they cannot erase their fundamental nature or past glory.