పోట్లాడే కోళ్ళు పొడిచినా పోవు

This proverb defines true skill and bravery by their toughest standards. In Telugu literature, the 'Kanda' meter is considered the most difficult to master; hence, only one who excels at it is a true poet. Similarly, hunting a wild boar was considered the ultimate test of a soldier's courage. It is used to suggest that expertise is proven only through the mastery of the most difficult tasks in a field.

This proverb is used to emphasize that serious problems or deep-seated issues cannot be solved with superficial or trivial remedies. Just as the venom of a snake bite cannot be removed by simply wiping the skin with a piece of cloth, complex challenges require appropriate and effective actions rather than mere symbolic gestures.

This expression is used to describe someone who is incredibly lucky or has survived a life-threatening situation against all odds. It implies that unless it is one's destined time to die, no amount of danger or misfortune can end their life.

This proverb justifies self-defense. It implies that when someone attacks or harms you, you have the right to defend yourself or retaliate, regardless of how noble, virtuous, or superior that person is usually considered to be. Even a sacred cow (symbol of non-violence and divinity) loses its immunity if it turns aggressive.

This expression refers to being harmed by someone or something that is generally perceived as harmless, saintly, or trustworthy. It describes an unexpected betrayal or injury from a source where one only expected goodness or safety.

This expression is used to describe a person who claims false bravery or credit for performing an act that required no effort or courage. It mocks someone who 'defeats' something that is already dead or powerless, highlighting the pointlessness and cowardice of their action.

This expression highlights that true mastery is defined by the ability to conquer difficult tasks. In warfare, killing a wild boar was considered the ultimate test of a soldier's bravery and skill. Similarly, in Telugu literature, the 'Kanda' meter is technically demanding and constrained; therefore, anyone who can compose it perfectly is recognized as a true poet. It is used to say that one's merit is proven by their performance in challenging situations.

This expression is used to mock someone who is acting overly proud, arrogant, or self-important without any actual justification. It suggests the person thinks they are the center of the universe or have achieved something extraordinary when they haven't.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone is betrayed or harmed by a person they have nurtured, helped, or protected. It is similar to the English expression 'biting the hand that feeds you.' It highlights the irony and pain of facing ingratitude from those closest to us.

This proverb describes a situation where harm or trouble comes from a source that is expected to be harmless, sacred, or benevolent. It is used when someone you trust implicitly, or a place/person associated with goodness, unexpectedly causes you grief or injury.