మూలవిరాట్టు తిరిపమెత్తుకొంటుంటే ఉత్సవ విగ్రహాలకు తెప్ప తిరునాళ్ళట

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the maintenance or overhead costs significantly exceed the actual value or size of the core object. It suggests that even for a small task or entity, the requirements or expenses involved can be disproportionately large.

This expression is used to highlight that when the core person or primary cause is neglected, performing elaborate rituals or paying attention to secondary or minor entities is meaningless. It signifies that honor should first go to the most important person in a situation rather than those who represent them.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the primary person or the main source of resources is in a dire state of poverty or struggle, yet the subordinates or dependents are making high demands or expecting luxuries. It highlights the irony of demanding extras when the core itself is failing.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the primary or most important people are suffering from lack of basic necessities, while those who are secondary or dependent on them are enjoying luxuries. It highlights an irony in the distribution of resources or attention, where the foundation is neglected in favor of the outward display.

Mūlavigrahās are the large idols made of stone which always remain in the temple; the Utsavigrahās are, as the name denotes, the smaller images that are carried in procession. Forwardness. Impertinent demands.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the primary or most important people are suffering from lack of basic needs, while subordinates or secondary entities are enjoying luxuries. It highlights irony in the distribution of resources or attention, where the foundation is neglected in favor of the superficial.

This proverb describes a situation where someone loses their assets, pride, or resources bit by bit due to mismanagement, misfortune, or a long journey. It is often used to mock someone who starts with a lot of pomp and show but ends up with nothing by the time they reach their destination.

This proverb is used to describe situations where a fundamental problem cannot be solved even with a full payment or major effort, so it is futile to expect it to be solved through minor adjustments or bargaining. It highlights that if the main path fails, trivial attempts will not succeed.

This proverb is used to point out that when a main task or a large investment fails to yield a result, a small extra effort or a trivial addition (tip/bonus) won't fix it. It highlights the futility of seeking small gains when the primary objective has already failed or is fundamentally insufficient.

* Tegen stromi is kwaad swemmen,

This proverb is used to describe an eccentric or foolish person who gets distracted or stuck on a simple, initial task, taking an excessive amount of time to accomplish something that should be quick. It mocks those who lack focus or common sense in practical situations.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the primary person or the most important matter is neglected or ignored, while undue importance or celebration is given to someone or something of lesser significance.