పప్పులేని పులగం, ఉప్పులేని దప్పళం

This proverb suggests that just as it is natural for a piece of coral to have a small hole or imperfection, it is almost impossible for a common person to go through life without incurring some form of debt or liability. It is used to express that being in debt is a common human condition or that nothing is perfectly flawless.

This expression is used to describe a person who lives beyond their means or spends borrowed money on luxuries and comforts instead of being frugal. It highlights the short-sightedness of enjoying life through debt.

This proverb highlights the dangers of vulnerability and isolation. A well without a protective wall (ledge) is a safety hazard, just as a house located in a remote area without neighbors lacks support and security. It is used to describe a situation or lifestyle that is precarious and lacks a safety net.

This expression refers to something that adds extra benefit or comfort to an already good situation. Since 'Pulagam' is a wholesome meal of rice and dal cooked together, adding extra 'Pappu' (dal/lentil stew) on top makes it even more delicious and rich. It is used to describe a situation where a small addition makes something significantly better.

This proverb is used to describe something that is incomplete or lacks a fundamental ingredient. In Telugu cuisine and culture, onions are essential for taste in curries, and serving dal is a basic requirement for a wedding feast. It highlights that certain elements are indispensable for an experience or task to be satisfactory.

This expression is used to describe someone who is extremely agitated, irritable, or prone to sudden outbursts of anger. Just as salt crackles and pops violently when thrown into a fire, it characterizes a person's volatile temperament or a situation that is highly unstable and reactive.

This expression is used to describe something that is bland, incomplete, or lacking its essential flavor or excitement. Just as salt is vital for dal and pickle is the necessary accompaniment for fermented curd rice (saddi), a situation or a person's talk without substance is considered dull and unappealing.

This proverb highlights the necessity of leadership and stewardship for stability. It implies that a kingdom without a ruler falls into chaos, and a village without a caretaker or cultivator cannot sustain itself or maintain order.

This proverb is used to emphasize that certain components are absolutely essential for an event or a task to be complete. Just as dal is a staple at a traditional Telugu wedding feast and salt is indispensable for taste in a curry, some things are fundamental requirements that cannot be ignored.

Said to a great friend whose presence at an entertainment is indis- pensable.

This proverb is used to describe a match between two people who are equally lacking or poorly suited in a similar way. It implies that a person gets a partner or an associate who is just as flawed or incomplete as they are, often used in a humorous or satirical context to describe mediocre pairings.