పట్టెడు బొట్టుంటే పదిలక్షలు

This expression is used to signify that all the hard work, toil, and various struggles a person undergoes in life are ultimately for basic sustenance and survival. It is often used to express a sense of humility or philosophical resignation regarding the grind of daily life.

This proverb is used to describe an exaggerated claim or a situation that defies logic. It mocks someone who tells highly improbable lies or impossible stories, highlighting that the details of their story are not only false but increasingly ridiculous.

This proverb is used sarcastically to describe a situation where a person is so troubled or miserable at home that they find more peace or safety staying elsewhere. It can also imply a state of homelessness or having nothing left to lose, suggesting that one's house is no longer a viable shelter.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone performs a deed with the intention of gaining religious merit (punyam), but the act inadvertently causes harm or results in a mess. It is often applied when an attempt to do good backfires or when a seemingly pious person's actions are actually riddled with flaws.

This expression describes a hypocrite who puts on a show of holiness or spirituality (represented by the sacred Rudraksha beads) while harboring worldly, lustful, or sinful thoughts (represented by 'madirakshulu' or beautiful women). It is used to call out someone whose external appearance and internal character are at odds.

While the original proverb 'Udyogam Purusha Lakshanam' emphasizes that work/effort defines a person's character and dignity, this extended humorous or sarcastic version suggests that losing one's job or being unemployed is seen as a flaw or a social stigma. It is often used to highlight the societal pressure regarding employment and financial stability.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone performs a small good deed or gains a little spiritual merit, but in the process, commits many sins or causes significant harm. It highlights hypocrisy or the irony of small virtues being overshadowed by large vices.

This expression means that a small flaw or a lapse in character can turn a virtue into a vice. It is used to caution people that maintaining one's good reputation or quality requires consistency, as even a minor deviation can lead to being perceived negatively.

There is a pun here on the word Lakshanam which as a noun signifies the ' rules of classic composition,' and as an adjective ' handsome.'—Ava- lakshanam means ' ugly,' ' deformed.'

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone has gained no actual benefit or success from their efforts, but still tries to maintain appearances or asks for a small, superficial token of recognition to save face.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone performs a supposedly good deed or religious act, but the unintended negative consequences, sins, or flaws associated with it far outweigh the benefits. It highlights hypocrisy or the futility of an action that brings more harm than good.