నల్లికాటు, నారిపోటు.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of gratitude and reverence. It suggests that if one cannot show respect or devotion to their own mother (the primary giver of life), they should at least show it to the sacred Tulasi plant, which is considered a universal mother figure in culture. It is used to remind someone to maintain a sense of spirituality or basic respect even if they fail in their primary duties.

This proverb describes the consequences of encouraging or pampering a lazy individual. When you provide luxuries or extra attention to a person who refuses to work, their demands will escalate until it feels as overwhelming as managing a whole marketplace at home. It is used to caution against enabling laziness.

This proverb describes the critical stage of a paddy crop when the grain starts forming inside the sheath (the 'pregnancy' stage of the plant). During this specific phase, the crop requires an abundance of water to ensure a good yield. It is used to highlight that certain tasks or life stages require specific, heavy investment or care at the right moment to be successful.

This expression is the Telugu equivalent of 'One size does not fit all.' It is used to suggest that a single approach, solution, or rule cannot be applied to everyone or every situation uniformly, as individual needs and circumstances vary.

This proverb emphasizes that facing a minor or blunt confrontation directly is far better than suffering a lethal or severe betrayal from an unexpected source. It is often used to suggest that honest, direct opposition is preferable to hidden or backstabbing enemies.

This expression is used to sarcastically describe someone who is extremely lazy, fragile, or prone to making excuses to avoid even the smallest amount of physical or mental effort. It highlights a person's tendency to exaggerate their exhaustion over trivial tasks.

Literally referring to the rising and falling of sea tides, this expression is used metaphorically to describe the ups and downs, fluctuations, or the highs and lows of life and fortune.

This proverb is used to describe individuals or entities that are inherently harmless or non-violent by nature. Just as a frog lacks the mechanism to bite and cause harm, a person of scholarly or peaceful disposition (traditionally represented by a Brahmin in this context) is expected to avoid physical aggression or confrontation.

* Mas descubre un hambriento que cien letrados.

This expression is used to describe severe, multi-faceted betrayal or damage. 'Vennupotu' refers to betrayal from within (like family or close associates ruining a home), while 'Paipotu' refers to external attacks or physical/visible hardships hitting an individual. It signifies a situation where one is being attacked both from within and without.

This expression is used to describe a situation where there are multiple options available, and any of them will work equally well. It suggests that since the outcome remains the same regardless of the choice, one doesn't need to overthink or be overly selective.