ముప్పది మూడు కోట్ల దేవతలు ముక్కు పట్టించగలరు గానీ, నారాయణా అనిపించగలరా?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where two people are equally matched in their cunning, wit, or flaws. It illustrates a 'tit-for-tat' scenario where one person tries to point out a subtle mistake or hide something, only for the other person to point out an even bigger or equally relevant issue. It signifies that one cannot easily fool someone who is just as smart or experienced as they are.

This expression is used to describe things or situations that are perfectly suited or ill-fitting. It highlights the contrast between something that is elegantly appropriate (like a perfectly sized nose-stud) and something that is disproportionate or unsuitable (like an earring that is too large or cumbersome for the ear). It can also refer to people who are either a perfect fit for a role or completely out of place.

This expression is used to signify that certain actions are irreversible. Once something is said or done, it cannot be undone or taken back, emphasizing the importance of thinking before acting or speaking.

This expression refers to the belief in fate or karma. In Telugu culture, it is believed that Brahma writes a person's destiny on their forehead at birth. It is used to express that certain events in life are inevitable and cannot be changed despite one's best efforts.

This expression is used sarcastically or ironically when someone tries to cover up their obvious mistakes or bad behavior by pretending to be concerned about their reputation. It originates from a folk story where a daughter-in-law behaves poorly and then asks if she deserves the bad name she is getting, highlighting hypocrisy.

Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

This proverb is used to criticize someone for making a mountain out of a molehill or taking extreme, unnecessary steps for a minor problem. It suggests that just because a small difficulty exists, one shouldn't resort to a solution that causes total self-destruction or overreaction.

This expression highlights the limits of external force or coercion. While someone can physically force or restrain you (holding the nose), they cannot force your inner will, devotion, or speech if you are unwilling. It is used to suggest that true conviction or action must come from within and cannot be compelled by power alone.

You cannot make an ass drink if he is not thirsty. (French.)* You may force a man to shut his eyes but not to sleep. (Danish.)†

This proverb is used to describe a person who has the capacity to cause destruction or ruin a plan, but lacks the skill or intention to handle the consequences or perform the task constructively. It highlights that creating a mess is easy, but managing the outcome requires a different set of abilities.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is forced to do a task by the very person who is hindering or controlling them. It signifies an ironic or redundant form of compulsion where the victim has no choice but to follow the instructions of their oppressor to perform a basic action.

This expression means that while you can silence an individual or hide a secret from one person, you cannot stop the entire world from talking or gossip from spreading. It is used to suggest that public opinion is beyond anyone's control.

* Homme chiche janala riche.