నీళ్ళపట్టున నేయి మందా

This proverb is used to express that good or noble qualities cannot be expected from someone or something that is inherently inferior or bad. Just as a fragrant, divine flower like Parijata cannot grow on a toxic, milky weed like Jilledu (Calotropis), one cannot expect greatness from a base origin or nature.

Pārijāta is the Nyctanthes Arbor Tristis, a very celebrated tree said to grow in Svarga, Indra's paradise (W. Elliot). Jillēḍu is the Calotropes Gigantea.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where all the hard work, meticulous effort, or ritualistic care put into a task goes completely to waste or is rendered useless due to a small mistake or an unfortunate turn of events. It implies that the sanctity or value of an endeavor has been lost.

This expression describes the irrational and self-destructive nature of extreme jealousy. It refers to someone who is so consumed by envy of another person's success or prosperity that they sabotage their own progress or well-being out of spite or sheer frustration.

An envious man waxes lean with the fatness of his neighbour. Envy is its own torturer. ( Danish ? ) * Wer einen lobt in Praesentia und schimpft in Absentia, den hole die Pestilentia. † Avindayg er sin egen Böddel.

This expression emphasizes the importance of taking initial small steps or making basic adjustments before expecting a significant change. It signifies that a major outcome or shift is dependent on a specific, smaller action being completed first. It is often used to describe sequential progress or dependencies in life.

This expression refers to a remedy that makes the original problem worse. Just as drinking fatty clarified butter (ghee) increases thirst instead of quenching it like water, it describes taking an action that is counterproductive or aggravates a difficult situation.

This expression highlights two human physiological urgencies that cannot be suppressed: the urge to relieve oneself (often done by river banks in historical contexts) and the urge to eat when extremely hungry. It is used to describe situations where patience is impossible due to natural or basic human needs.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the primary person or the main requirement is not being met, yet a secondary person or a minor requirement demands something even more expensive or luxurious. It highlights misplaced priorities or unrealistic expectations from subordinates/dependents when the leader/main person is struggling.

This expression is used to convey that the effectiveness of a remedy or solution is what truly matters, regardless of its cost, origin, or reputation. If a treatment works and the ailment is cured, it is considered the right 'medicine'. It is often applied to situations where practical results are valued over theoretical perfection.

This is a humorous or sarcastic expression used when someone expects an reward or a bribe for doing a small favor or their basic duty. It highlights a situation where someone is bargaining unnecessarily or showing mock-generosity to get out of a task or to demand something in return for a simple act.

This proverb is used to describe a person who does not stick to their word or lacks consistency in their promises. Just as it is impossible to pack or carry water in a bundle, the promises of an inconsistent person have no substance and cannot be relied upon.