న భూతో న భవిష్యతి

This expression implies that the character, behavior, and values of the citizens or followers are a reflection of their leader. If the leader is righteous and hardworking, the people will follow suit; if the leader is corrupt, the society tends to follow that path. It is used to emphasize the influence and responsibility of leadership.

This expression is used when a situation takes an unexpected or dramatic turn for the worse. It describes a scenario where things did not go according to plan and instead became complicated or problematic.

This expression is used to mock or point out when an elderly person starts behaving like a youngster, or when someone does something completely inappropriate for their age. It literally suggests that an old person is acting as if they are hitting puberty or reaching maturity for the first time again.

This is a humorous proverb used to describe a person who is so foolish or thick-skinned that they take an insult as a personal recognition. It is used to mock someone who is completely unaware of their own stupidity or shortcomings.

This is a traditional ending phrase for folk tales and bedtime stories in Telugu culture. It signifies that the story has concluded and it is time for the listeners to return to reality or go to sleep. It is used metaphorically to signal the completion of a long narrative or an event.

This proverb describes a situation where a person in a weak or dependent position acts out of anger, only to harm themselves further. It is used to caution people that losing one's temper when they have no leverage or resources results in self-inflicted loss rather than affecting others.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the child of a highly learned or talented person turns out to be ignorant or foolish. It highlights that intelligence and wisdom are not always hereditary and mocks the irony when a great person's offspring lacks basic sense.

This expression is used to describe a state of extreme distress, agony, or a critical situation where someone is barely hanging on to life or facing an immense struggle. It can also figuratively describe being in a high-pressure situation where one is waiting for a result with bated breath.

Refers to a Herculean task or an extraordinary, persistent effort to achieve something nearly impossible. It originates from the mythological story of King Bhagiratha, who performed intense penance for years to bring the river Ganges from the heavens to Earth.

This is a sarcastic or humorous proverb used to describe an incompetent doctor or healer. It implies that if someone takes a pill prescribed by such a person, they will not be cured but will instead die and go to 'Vaikuntha' (heaven/the abode of Vishnu). It is used to mock people who pretend to be experts but provide dangerous results.

Said jokingly to a quack. Bleed him, and purge him; if he dies, bury him. (Spanish.)*