పెద్దపులి తరుముకు వచ్చినా, హజారము ముందరికి పోరాదు

This proverb highlights the historical fear and unpredictability of government authority and bureaucracy. It suggests that while a wild animal is a known danger, the complications, legal troubles, and harassment one might face from officials or the state can be far more ruinous and difficult to escape.

This proverb warns that some people or places are so treacherous that seeking refuge there is more dangerous than the original threat. It implies that a goldsmith might find a way to cheat or exploit you even in a life-and-death crisis, suggesting one should avoid dealings with notoriously cunning or untrustworthy people regardless of the circumstances.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a newcomer, junior, or younger person surpasses their senior or predecessor in skill, power, or success. It highlights that experience (age) doesn't always guarantee superiority over late-blooming talent or sharp ambition.

This proverb warns against choosing a remedy that is more dangerous than the original threat. It suggests that while fleeing from a known danger (a bandit), one must not blindly rush into an even more chaotic or fatal situation (unpredictable wild buffaloes) where there is no chance of escape.

This proverb suggests that it is better to walk beside someone as an equal or companion rather than following them like a servant or subordinate. It emphasizes self-respect and warns against putting oneself in a position where one might be ignored or treated with less importance while traveling or working together.

This proverb highlights the extreme fear or oppression associated with powerful authorities or landlords in the past. It implies that the consequences of facing a ruthless person's wrath or legal/financial entrapment are worse than the danger of a wild animal.

This proverb highlights the transient nature of power and social status. It suggests that authority and leadership are only relevant while a person is alive and present in society; once deceased, their worldly influence vanishes and they belong only to the graveyard.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb (Sameta) used to describe people who, after breaking social or moral boundaries and losing their respectability, try to act as leaders or authoritative figures in public places. It highlights how those who lack discipline in their personal lives often try to dominate others in the community.

This expression is used to describe a deeply ingrained habit, trait, or skill that stays with a person throughout their lifetime. It suggests that once something is learned or becomes part of a person's nature, it is nearly impossible to change or get rid of it.

Slander leaves a slur. Give a dog an ill name, and you may as well hang him.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of timing and composure. Just as unseasonal thunder is often a sign of poor weather or lack of rain for crops, being overly anxious or impatient (flustered) before starting a task leads to poor results. It suggests that patience and waiting for the right moment are essential for success.