ప్రసూతి వైరాగ్యం, పురాణ వైరాగ్యం, శ్మశాన వైరాగ్యం

This proverb highlights the low value or inefficiency of certain choices. Just as finger millets are considered a poor substitute for a primary crop and goats are seen as a humble or unstable form of wealth compared to cattle or gold, the expression is used to describe situations where something is barely sufficient or lacks true substance and prosperity.

In one’s life, health is more essential than material wealth and so it should not be neglected.

This expression highlights the defining characteristics of two great Telugu poets and their contributions to art. Kshetrayya is famous for his 'Sringara Padalu' (romantic lyrics) which are so immersive that they lack 'Vairagyam' (ascetic detachment). Conversely, Siddhendra Yogi, the creator of Kuchipudi's Bhamakalapam, uses romance only as a medium for 'Bhakti' (devotion), meaning his work is purely spiritual and lacks worldly eroticism.

This expression refers to a state of total renunciation or disillusionment with worldly desires. It implies that when a person reaches a peak level of detachment (vairagya), they no longer view others through the lens of lust or social labels, treating everyone with the same respect or neutrality as they would their own mother. It is often used to describe someone who has completely lost interest in material or carnal pleasures.

This proverb describes a situation where someone's hard-earned wealth or resources are not enjoyed by them or their heirs, but instead are wasted or consumed by unworthy, greedy, or unrelated outsiders. It is used to highlight the irony of accumulating great fortune only for it to be squandered by others.

This proverb highlights the essential nature of basic necessities over luxury. It implies that no matter how rich a person is, they still need food to survive just like anyone else. It is used to humble those who are arrogant about their wealth or to remind people that money cannot satisfy every human need.

This expression refers to a temporary feeling of detachment or philosophical realization that arises in the face of death or tragedy, but fades away quickly as soon as one returns to normal life. It is used to describe short-lived resolutions or fleeting spiritual thoughts.

This proverb suggests that people become your relatives or show affection as long as you provide for them (serve food/gifts), and fortune or success is often gained through flattering others. It is used to describe the superficial nature of certain social bonds and worldly success.

While the pot boils friendship blooms. (GERMAN.)*

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone's efforts lead to the exact opposite of the intended noble result. It refers to people who pretend to seek spiritual enlightenment or discipline but end up focusing on worldly or base desires instead.

This expression refers to temporary or short-lived philosophical detachment or wisdom. 'Vallakati Vairagyam' refers to the fleeting feeling of renouncing worldly desires one feels at a funeral, while 'Puritali Vairagyam' refers to a woman's temporary vow never to have another child during the pain of labor. It is used to describe people who make sudden, serious resolutions during times of distress but quickly forget them once life returns to normal.