నిజము కురచ, బొంకు పొడవు

This proverb suggests that while lies or rumors might spread quickly or cause initial confusion, the truth eventually reveals itself over time. It is used to encourage patience during a misunderstanding or to remind someone that dishonesty cannot remain hidden forever.

Truth is the daughter of time.

This expression refers to a 'truth' that is ambiguous, non-committal, or deceptive. It is used to describe a situation where someone gives a diplomatic or evasive answer that seems honest but hides the actual facts to avoid trouble or profit-seeking, much like the stereotypical cleverness attributed to traditional traders.

This proverb suggests that people often use pretenses to protect their interests. A wealthy person might fake a cough or illness to avoid fulfilling a social obligation or giving money, just as a fake ascetic might wear saffron robes (kaashaayam) to deceive others. It is used to describe deceptive behavior used to hide the truth or avoid responsibility.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person tries to cover up a mistake or a wrongdoing with a lie. If the lie is believed, they get away with it (it remains just a 'lie'); if the lie fails and they are caught, the act is exposed as something much more scandalous or serious. It highlights how people manipulate truths to suit their convenience until they are caught.

This expression means that the truth eventually reveals itself as time passes. It is used to advise patience when someone is being falsely accused or when facts are currently obscured, suggesting that one should wait for the situation to settle for the reality to emerge.

This expression is used to describe someone who is short-tempered or gets angry very quickly and easily. It implies that their anger is always 'at the ready' right on their face.

This proverb emphasizes that a life built on immorality (infidelity) and dishonesty (falsehood) will never lead to a peaceful or successful conclusion. It is used to warn that character and integrity are essential for a stable life, and shortcuts through deceit or unethical behavior will eventually lead to ruin.

This expression refers to deceptive talk or false promises born out of unfulfilled wishes or unrealistic ambitions. It is used to describe someone who makes tall claims or tells lies to mask their failures or to pretend that their unreachable dreams are within grasp.

This proverb highlights that the flaws or misdeeds of influential, wealthy, or high-status individuals are often hidden from public view or suppressed by their reputation. It is used to describe how power and status can mask hypocrisy and dishonesty.

This is a paradoxical or cynical saying used to highlight how critics or those with a narrow perspective can misinterpret the core themes of the great epics. It refers to how someone who doesn't understand the spiritual context might only see the abduction of Sita (Ramayana), the harsh violence/politics (Mahabharata), or the supernatural miracles (Bhagavatam) as negative traits.