ముసలివాడయినా బసిరెడ్డి మేలు

This proverb describes a situation where an elderly person becomes overly attached to or obsessed with someone or something unsuitable or inappropriate for their age. It is often used to criticize elderly men who pursue younger women, or more broadly, to point out the irony of developing new, intense cravings at a late stage in life when they should be focused on other matters.

This proverb is used to describe an insignificant person who grows arrogant due to a slight increase in wealth or status. It highlights the absurdity of a tiny thing (cumin seed) imagining itself to be something massive and sturdy (a heavy wooden beam or log).

This proverb emphasizes that the advice given by experienced elders is safe, wise, and reliable. Following their guidance helps one avoid unnecessary difficulties or 'thorns' in life's journey, leading to a smoother and more successful path.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is being intentionally stubborn, contrary, or uncooperative. It refers to a person who gives an irrelevant or opposite response to whatever is said, making it impossible to have a productive conversation or reach an agreement.

This proverb highlights how people's preferences or attachments change with age or vulnerability. It suggests that someone in a weak or advanced stage of life finds comfort or affection in things that others might overlook or find plain, often implying that simplicity or basic companionship becomes more valuable than vanity in one's later years.

* On ne saurait faire boire un âne s'il n'a pas soif. † Man kan nœde en Mand till at blunde, men ikke til at sove.

This proverb is used to describe individuals who maintain their strength, productivity, or work capacity regardless of their age. It implies that certain beings remain robust and useful until the very end, suggesting that age is just a number for those with a strong constitution or work ethic.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the only resource or child available is ruined or rendered useless for the expected purpose. It highlights the tragedy of losing the only hope or support one had to an undesirable path or outcome.

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 proverb is used to criticize someone who lacks common sense or practical wisdom despite being highly educated. It suggests that a simple, uneducated person (like a washerman) who performs their duties effectively and understands the practicalities of life is more valuable than a scholar who cannot apply their knowledge or lacks humility.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where there is a serious crisis or a basic need (represented by the child's hunger), but someone else is focused on inappropriate, selfish, or absurd desires that are completely out of place given the circumstances.