నష్టకష్టము

This proverb is used to describe a delicate or troublesome situation where there is no perfect outcome. No matter which way things turn out, there will be difficulties or complaints. It is often used to refer to people who are never satisfied or situations that are inherently problematic regardless of the change in state.

This expression is used when someone is presented with two options that lead to the same result, or when someone is trying to act like they are giving a choice when they actually are not. In village rituals, Pothuraju is the deity to whom a ram (pottelu) is sacrificed. Whether one chooses the deity or the sacrifice, the ram's fate remains the same. It is used to describe a 'no-win' situation or a choice between two equally difficult or identical outcomes.

This proverb emphasizes that wealth earned through hard work brings true satisfaction and the right to enjoy one's favorite comforts. It suggests that when you work hard for your money, the pleasure derived from spending it, particularly on good food, is much more fulfilling and honorable.

This expression refers to a group of four evil or malicious individuals who collaborate to cause harm. Historically, it originates from the Mahabharata, referring to Duryodhana, Dushasana, Karna, and Shakuni. In modern usage, it is often used in political or social contexts to criticize a group of four people working together with bad intentions.

This expression means that true happiness or comfort can only be achieved after enduring hard work or difficulty. It emphasizes that the reward of pleasure is the result of previous struggle.

This proverb highlights the challenges of different stages of life. Being a monk or ascetic (Sanyasam) is difficult in old age due to loneliness and physical ailments, whereas family life (Samsaram) is hardest in the middle years when one is burdened with responsibilities, financial stress, and raising children.

This proverb describes a fickle mindset where a person's perception of someone or something changes based on their current mood or interest. When they like a person, everything about them seems wonderful and soft like flowers (eeparalu), but once the interest fades or a conflict arises, the same person or thing seems irritating and painful like thorns (kamparalu). It is used to mock hypocritical or inconsistent behavior in relationships.

This proverb satirizes the legal system. It implies that in a legal battle, both the plaintiff and the defendant end up losing their wealth and peace of mind, while only the lawyers benefit financially. The final outcome remains unpredictable as it depends entirely on the court's discretion. It is used to advise people to settle disputes outside of court.

This proverb is used to describe someone who is very enthusiastic and first in line when it comes to eating or receiving benefits, but makes excuses or relies on 'luck' and laziness when it is time to work. It highlights the hypocrisy of a person who consumes resources greedily but contributes nothing.

This saying highlights the cynical reality of prolonged legal battles. It implies that while the plaintiff and defendant lose their wealth and peace of mind in litigation, the lawyers profit from the fees, and the final outcome remains at the discretion of the court. It is used to advise people to settle disputes amicably rather than approaching the court.