పల్లమునకు ఒక దుక్కి, మెట్టకు నాలుగు దుక్కులు

This expression refers to the inconsistency of human speech. Since the tongue is flexible and has no bone (naram) to keep it rigid, it can easily change its stance or twist the truth. It is used to describe people who are unreliable, go back on their word, or change their versions of a story to suit their convenience.

This proverb emphasizes the power of communication. It suggests that a person who can speak well, ask questions, and interact with others can navigate through any situation or place in the world without getting lost or stuck. Communication skills and the ability to seek help are key to survival and success.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb indicating that different tasks require different levels of effort. Sesame (gingelly) seeds are tiny and delicate, needing highly refined soil prepared by multiple plowings to thrive. In contrast, horsegram is a hardy crop that grows even in rough, minimally tilled soil. It is used to suggest that one should apply effort proportional to the specific nature and needs of a project.

This proverb is used to describe a person who claims to be incapable or weak, yet demands or enjoys excessive luxuries and conveniences. It highlights the irony of someone who lacks basic abilities but has high-maintenance requirements.

This proverb emphasizes that hard work and perseverance lead to prosperity and high status. Lowlands are often the most fertile but difficult areas to cultivate; therefore, the person who puts in the effort to farm them will eventually earn enough wealth and respect to afford a luxury like a palanquin (an ancient symbol of status and comfort).

This proverb is used to describe people who are inconsistent or unreliable in their speech. Since the tongue is flexible (boneless), it can easily twist the truth, make false promises, or change versions of a story to suit the situation. It serves as a warning not to trust everything someone says blindly.

This proverb is used to mock people who make excuses for their laziness or incompetence, only to demand excessive comfort and special treatment. It highlights the irony of someone claiming an inability to do a simple task but expecting a grand arrangement for their convenience.

If one is excessively greedy, one is most likely to get into trouble. The golden rule is deserve and desire – and moderately.

This expression is used to advise that being overly hesitant or shy (Mogamatam) prevents one from achieving their goals or finding true freedom (Moksham). It suggests that if you are too worried about what others think or too shy to speak your mind, you will never reach your full potential or find peace.

This proverb describes a situation where when a powerful or influential person falls from grace or faces a downfall, even the common or weak people who were previously afraid of them will take the opportunity to criticize, mock, or attack them. It is used to illustrate how people react to someone's loss of power or misfortune.