పెట్టక కీర్తిరాదు, నలపింపక ఇంతికి నింపురాదు.

This expression is used to describe someone who may appear physically small or humble in stature, but possesses immense talent, greatness, or achievements. It is similar to the English proverb 'Great things come in small packages' and emphasizes that a person's capability or reputation should not be judged by their physical size.

This expression is the Telugu equivalent of the 'Three Wise Monkeys' principle (See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil). It serves as a moral guideline advising people to avoid listening to gossip or negativity, refrain from witnessing bad deeds, and avoid speaking ill of others or using harsh language.

This proverb is used to describe things that are temporary or unreliable. Palm wood burns very quickly and turns to ash before it can be carried home for use, and a toddy tapper's wife is often busy helping her husband in the fields or with sales, making her unavailable for other chores. It signifies that certain efforts are futile because the nature of the object or person is inherently unsuitable for the desired outcome.

This is a traditional Telugu riddle where the answer is 'broom' (poraka/cheepuru). When a new broom is brought, it 'fills' the house with cleanliness, and as it wears down over time, the broken sticks are discarded in the backyard, eventually filling it up. It is used to describe things that are useful in their prime but become waste after their purpose is served.

This proverb is used to describe a situation of extreme inefficiency or futility. It suggests that just as meager wages are insufficient to provide even a basic meal, a person with a low or stubborn character (leki) is impossible to manage or reform. It is often used to remark on someone who is both unproductive and unmanageable.

This expression refers to 'Moola Vana' (rains during the Moola Nakshatram period) which are traditionally believed to be persistent and heavy. Metaphorically, it is used to describe a situation, problem, or consequence that is inevitable and bound to cause significant impact or trouble once it begins. It implies that certain events must run their full course before they subside.

This proverb describes a state of total insecurity, neglect, or lack of discipline. It is used to refer to a situation where there are no boundaries or protections in place, often implying that a system or family is disorganized and vulnerable to outside interference or internal chaos.

This proverb highlights the endless nature of certain obligations. Just as one continues to make offerings to the Goddess throughout life, one's responsibilities and gifts toward a sister (or daughter) in a traditional family setup are perpetual and can never be considered 'settled' or 'paid off' completely.

This proverb is used to describe a person who might be small in physical stature or humble in appearance but possesses immense talent, wisdom, or achievements. It signifies that one's value should be measured by their character and reputation rather than their physical size. It is equivalent to the English expression 'Small in size, but big in fame'.

This proverb describes a situation of complete lack of security or discipline. It is used to refer to households or organizations where there is no control, no boundaries, and no protection, often implying a state of mismanagement or vulnerability where anyone can come and go as they please.