నానబెట్టిన నార తలకెక్కినట్లు

This expression is used to describe pursuing something that is non-existent, illusory, or impossible to achieve. Just as one cannot find or fetch water from a mirage (optical illusion), it refers to wasted efforts on deceptive goals.

This expression is used when a private family matter, secret, or internal conflict is exposed to the public. It highlights the embarrassment or loss of reputation that occurs when personal issues are discussed openly in a community or marketplace (raccha).

This is a traditional, often misogynistic proverb used to suggest that giving a woman too much freedom or indulgence will lead to her becoming overbearing, disrespectful, or uncontrollable. It is used to caution against being too lenient in a patriarchal context.

This proverb describes how an ordinary or low-status person gains respect or a higher position simply by being in the company of great people. Just as the fiber (nara) used to tie a garland is worn on the head along with the fragrant flowers, an individual benefits from the association with virtuous or successful people.

This expression is used to describe people who take undue advantage of one's kindness, friendliness, or leniency. It suggests that if you are too approachable or fail to set boundaries, others may become over-familiar or disrespectful, crossing their limits.

This expression describes doing things for the sake of formality or in a routine, mechanical manner without real devotion or focus. It is used when someone performs a task just to get it over with or to show others they have done it, rather than putting in genuine effort or intent.

This proverb emphasizes that only what you have already consumed or secured for yourself is truly yours. It is used to describe situations involving uncertainty or limited resources, suggesting that one should value what they have already obtained rather than relying on future promises or potential gains that may never materialize.

This expression describes a task that is practically impossible or an attempt to find something where it doesn't exist. It is used to mock someone who is being overly pedantic, searching for non-existent flaws, or attempting a futile, logic-defying action.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone of a lower status or position suddenly acts with arrogance or oversteps their boundaries toward their superiors. It signifies an inversion of the natural order or a sudden rise in ego where a person forgets their place.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is trying to achieve something impossible or attempting to extract something from a source that has nothing to give. It characterizes a task that is extremely difficult, futile, or involves dealing with a very stubborn and heartless person.

To milk a he goat. (Latin.)*