నోట్లో ముద్ద, గూట్లో దీపం

This expression refers to someone or something that is in the wrong place or being raised by the wrong people. It is often used to describe a talented or virtuous person born into an unworthy or mismatched family/environment, or a situation where one's true identity is hidden while being nurtured by another.

This expression describes a state of basic contentment, security, and stability. Just as a lamp protected in a wall niche stays lit and food in the belly provides immediate satisfaction, it refers to having one's essential needs met—shelter and sustenance. It is often used to describe a simple, worry-free life or a situation where everything is in its proper, safe place.

This expression is used to indicate that someone's time is up, or they have reached the end of their rope. It often implies that someone's mischievous deeds or a specific phase of their life/work is coming to an end, or that they are finally caught or cornered.

He is on his last legs.

This expression is used to question whether someone values the end result and productivity (pani) or if they are more concerned with the effort and hardship (paatu) involved. It is often used to remind someone that the outcome is what matters most, or to ask if they are willing to endure the struggle to get the reward.

This expression describes a situation where things are ready or easily accessible in their respective places. It is often used to refer to a simple, humble, and satisfied lifestyle where one has the basic necessities (like a bit of spice/chili and a bowl of rice) arranged and ready to be consumed without much fuss.

This expression is used to describe someone who cannot keep a secret. Just as a tiny mustard seed is hard to keep still in one's mouth, this person feels a restless urge to reveal any information or secrets they hear to others immediately.

This expression refers to a traditional practice of eating dinner immediately after lighting the evening lamp. It describes an early and disciplined routine of finishing the day's tasks promptly before total darkness set in, often used to signify a simple, timely, and orderly lifestyle.

This proverb highlights the extremely strong and pungent nature of Guntur tobacco. It suggests that its presence is so powerful that its smell or effect is felt regardless of whether it is stored away or being consumed. In a broader sense, it refers to something or someone whose influence or reputation is so pervasive that it cannot be ignored, regardless of its position.

This expression refers to extreme domestic secrecy or a lack of communication between a couple. It describes a situation where both partners are keeping secrets from each other, making it impossible for either to speak freely or share the truth.