నల్లనివన్నీ నీళ్ళు కావు, తెల్లనివన్నీ పాలు కావు

This proverb highlights the importance of stability and permanence. Just as a temporary thatched shed (pandiri) cannot provide the security of a permanent home, a person who is just passing through (paradesi) cannot fulfill the long-term responsibilities or provide the stability expected of a spouse. It is used to caution against relying on temporary arrangements or people who lack commitment.

This proverb highlights the essential elements that bring life and joy to a place. Just as birds are vital for the vibrancy and identity of a grove (orchard), children are considered the soul and joy of a household. It is used to emphasize the importance of children in making a home feel complete and lively.

This proverb is used to describe a person who finds faults in everything when they are unwilling or uninterested in a particular person or task. Just as it is impossible to find a stone in smooth curd, such people invent excuses or imaginary problems to avoid involvement or to criticize others.

This proverb warns against judging things or people based solely on their outward appearance. It suggests that first impressions or surface-level characteristics can be deceptive; just because something looks like milk doesn't mean it is pure, and just because something looks like murky water doesn't mean it is useless.

This proverb is used to describe someone who is restless, indecisive, or constantly on the move. Just as a person drinking water from their hands or a vessel might be in a hurry to finish and move on, it refers to a person who lacks patience or a steady nature.

This expression is used to describe someone who is untrustworthy, manipulative, or frequently changes their stance. A 'black tongue' (machanaluka) metaphorically refers to someone whose words can bring misfortune or someone who lies habitually, implying that their promises or statements cannot be relied upon.

This proverb is used to warn against seeking comfort or reliability in things that are inherently hazardous or provide no real protection. Just as a palm tree provides very little shade or shelter (making it a poor 'home') and is often associated with intoxicants (toddy), one should not expect nourishment or maternal care from unreliable sources.

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 an action that highlights or makes something very obvious and prominent. Just as a saddle is immediately noticeable on a white horse, a particular behavior, flaw, or merit becomes strikingly apparent in certain situations. It is often used to refer to someone trying to hide something that is impossible to conceal or making a choice that draws unnecessary attention.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of wit, resourcefulness, and practical intelligence. It suggests that a person without any cleverness or problem-solving skills becomes a liability to the community and cannot survive or thrive in social structures.