నూరు అబద్ధాలాడి అయినా ఒక ఇల్లు నిలపాలి

This expression advises extreme caution and patience. It suggests that even when a situation seems safe or simple, one should still act with care and verify everything before proceeding, rather than acting in haste.

There is a pun here on the word చల్లాచుకోని which also means "having cooled." Nothing should be done hastily. Good and quickly seldom meet. Haste trips up its own heels.

This proverb emphasizes that everything and everyone has a designated place or status. No matter how valuable or expensive something is, it cannot change its fundamental nature or bypass certain protocols. It is used to suggest that people should stick to their roles or that some things, regardless of quality, are still subject to certain limitations.

This proverb emphasizes individuality and self-interest. It means that despite the closest of human bonds (like a mother and child), every person has their own physical needs, hunger, and personal destiny. It is often used to suggest that even in intimate relationships, people must eventually look after themselves or that one's internal feelings and needs cannot be fully shared by another.

This proverb highlights the immense value and comfort of a simple, wholesome meal like dal-rice (pappannam). It is used to describe how someone is willing to go to great lengths or travel long distances for something they truly cherish or find satisfying, often used in the context of food or simple pleasures.

This proverb is used to imply that small or insignificant actions cannot cause major damage, or that mild threats/anger cannot destroy strong foundations. It suggests that just because water is hot, it doesn't possess the destructive power of fire.

Applied to lenient or ineffective measures.

This proverb is used to describe someone who turns to virtue or a respectable life only after they have no other options left or have exhausted their capacity for vice. It suggests that their newfound righteousness is a matter of necessity or failure rather than a genuine change of heart.

This expression is used to describe a person who is habitually prone to complaining or creating a ruckus regardless of the circumstances. It suggests that for some people, misery or noisy behavior is a constant trait that doesn't change even in the face of significant disasters or personal loss.

This expression advises maintaining a balanced, steady, and disciplined lifestyle regardless of life's ups and downs. It suggests that one should navigate through time with equanimity, neither getting too excited during good times nor too despondent during bad times, emphasizing the importance of stability and perseverance.

This expression is used to signify that danger or an enemy should not be underestimated based on size or scale. Just as a small snake's venom can be as lethal as a large one's, a problem or opponent remains dangerous regardless of their stature.

This proverb advises financial prudence and modesty. It suggests that one should live in a modest house (within their means) while focusing resources on the growth, prosperity, and well-being of the family members. It emphasizes prioritizing people and life quality over showy material assets.