పాముతో చెలిమి, కత్తితో సాము

This proverb refers to a situation where someone commits a mistake but expects to be forgiven easily with a simple apology or a gesture of respect (Dandam), rather than facing a formal punishment. It is often used when minor errors are dismissed without serious consequences due to the status or the simple nature of the person involved.

This traditional expression suggests that some people's loyalty or trust can be unpredictable and dangerous. It is used to caution someone about placing complete faith in individuals who might be fickle or potentially harmful, drawing a comparison to the inherent danger of befriending venomous snakes.

This expression is used to warn someone that they are engaging in a very dangerous or risky activity that could lead to severe consequences or self-destruction. It is typically used when someone is underestimating a serious threat.

This expression means that when a difficulty or disaster is shared by many, it becomes easier to bear. It suggests that collective suffering reduces individual pain or that facing a challenge as a group provides a sense of solidarity and comfort, similar to the shared joy of a wedding.

This proverb suggests that when a misfortune or a difficult situation is shared by a large group, it becomes easier to bear. It reflects the human psychological comfort found in solidarity during times of crisis, implying that suffering alone is a tragedy, but suffering together is a shared experience.

This proverb emphasizes that the hospitality and love with which food is served are more important than the food itself. Even a grand feast is worthless and unpleasant if the host lacks genuine affection or respect for the guest, comparing such a joyless meal to funeral offerings (Pinda).

This proverb highlights the power of affection over coercion. It suggests that people are willing to endure hardships or do difficult things for those they love or trust, whereas force and authority fail to make someone comply even with something beneficial.

This expression describes a situation that is extremely precarious, delicate, or risky. It is used when a task requires immense skill, balance, or caution because even a small mistake could lead to disastrous consequences. It is equivalent to the English idiom 'walking on a tightrope' or 'walking on eggshells'.

This proverb serves as a warning about the risks of reckless flirtation or pursuing forbidden relationships. It suggests that just as playing with a venomous snake is life-threatening and unpredictable, involving oneself in romantic mischief or illicit affairs can lead to dangerous consequences, social ruin, or sudden trouble.

This proverb warns that befriending powerful people or rulers is as dangerous as befriending a venomous snake. Just as a snake might bite at any moment regardless of intimacy, a powerful person can turn against you or cause your downfall due to their unpredictable nature and authority.