ముగ్గురు బిడ్డల్ని కంటే ముసలాడికైనా కొరగాదు.

This proverb is used to emphasize impartiality and equality in family relationships. It points out that a grandfather shares the same biological bond with all his grandchildren, regardless of whether they are born to his son or his daughter, suggesting that one should not show favoritism based on lineage.

This proverb lists three things that fail to serve their intended purpose. It emphasizes that utility and harmony are essential in relationships and tools. If a lamp doesn't provide light, a spouse doesn't provide companionship, or a child is constantly unruly, they cannot fulfill their roles effectively.

This proverb lists things that fail to fulfill their primary purpose. A lamp is meant to give light; if it is dim, it is useless. A spouse is meant for loyalty; if unfaithful, the relationship is broken. A child is meant to be held with joy; if they cry incessantly, it becomes a burden. It is used to describe people or things that are technically present but fail to provide the intended comfort or utility.

* Vultus est index animi. 39

This expression is used when someone we love and care for deeply ends up causing us significant trouble, pain, or destruction. It highlights the irony and betrayal felt when a person who was expected to be a source of joy or support turns into a source of misery. It is often used in familial contexts or situations where personal affection led to a regrettable outcome.

This expression describes an extremely difficult, risky, or precarious task where one must balance multiple factors perfectly to avoid disaster. It implies that the situation is so dangerous and stressful that one wouldn't wish it even upon their worst enemy.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an inexperienced person tries to give advice or instructions to someone who is much more experienced and knowledgeable in that specific field. It highlights the irony of a novice teaching a veteran.

This traditional Telugu proverb reflects the historical socioeconomic burden of marrying off three daughters. It suggests that the expenses and responsibilities associated with the weddings and dowries of three girls would drain a family's wealth so entirely that even a wealthy or stable man (metaphorically the 'old man') would be rendered penniless or ruined.

This expression means that a person who is capable of committing a minor offense or mistreating a specific person is also capable of committing a bigger offense or attacking someone in a higher position. It is used to warn that once a person crosses a boundary of decency or law, no one is safe from their behavior.

This proverb highlights the changing nature of children as they grow up. It suggests that while children are easy to manage and dependent when they are infants (held in a cloth cradle or 'addalu'), they become independent, headstrong, or even ungrateful once they reach adulthood (represented by 'gaddalu' or beards). It is used to express a parent's frustration when adult children no longer listen or follow their guidance.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone claims to have done something impossible or where results have appeared suspiciously fast without the necessary process. It refers to maintaining a facade of innocence or purity (the seal) while the reality (three children) suggests otherwise. It is often used to highlight hypocrisy or blatant lies regarding one's conduct.