ముండకాదు, ముత్తైదువా కాదు

This proverb is used to emphasize that an object's or person's inherent nature cannot be changed just because of outward similarities or pretension. Just as an onion's smell prevents it from being a jasmine, and a crow's appearance doesn't make it a melodic cuckoo, intrinsic traits define true character.

This proverb is used to comment on irony or hypocritical situations where people judge others based on timing or status, even when they share a similar fate. It highlights that the first person to experience a situation or commit an act often gains a higher status or 'moral ground' compared to the second person who does the exact same thing.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone makes an excessive or extravagant display for a very short-lived or insignificant event. It highlights the absurdity of over-preparing or over-spending on something that lacks longevity or substance.

This expression is used to describe someone or something that is in an ambiguous or uncertain state, belonging to neither of two distinct categories. It often refers to a person who lacks a clear identity or a situation that remains unresolved and 'in-between.'

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one makes multiple attempts or tries many different ways with the hope that at least one will succeed. It is often used in a slightly cynical or humorous context regarding persistence or trial-and-error efforts.

This expression is used to describe someone or something that is completely useless or fails to serve any intended purpose. Just as a woman who doesn't care for the home isn't a true housewife, and a broken or ill-fitting pot cannot be part of a stack (donthi), a person who lacks utility in their designated role is described this way.

This expression is used to describe someone who is completely ignorant or uneducated. It implies that since the person never learned anything (study) in the first place, there is nothing for them to forget. It highlights a state of total lack of knowledge or intellectual effort.

This expression highlights the value of personal experience, biological connection, and practical utility. It suggests that the true essence or value of something is realized only when it fulfills its primary purpose or has a direct personal bond. It is often used to emphasize that ownership or a relationship is truly meaningful only when it is direct and earned, rather than through secondary means.

This proverb emphasizes that integrity and transparency are more valuable than social status or outward appearances. It suggests that a person with low social standing (historically, a widow) who is honest and clean in character is superior to a person of high social status (a married woman/mutthaiduva) who is deceitful, immoral, or 'dirty' in her conduct.

This expression is used to mock someone who puts on a false show of extreme piety, innocence, or virtue. It describes a hypocrite who pretends to be saintly while harboring deceitful intentions or having a questionable character.