రహస్యమేమిటంటే, వడ్లగింజలోది బియ్యపు గింజ అన్నట్లు

This expression describes a manipulative or extremely shrewd person who gives something of very little value (a small date seed) to gain something much more valuable (a large palmyra seed). It is used to caution against people who perform small favors only to demand or extract much larger benefits in return.

Íta is the wild date ( Phoenix Sylvestris ). Tāḍu is the Palmyra ( Borassus Flabelliformis ). Offering a gift of slight value for the purpose of gaining a rich present. Throw in a sprat to catch a salmon.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a small or insignificant thing can provoke a quick and intense reaction from someone who is already hyper-sensitive, greedy, or looking for an excuse to act. Just as a small piece of popped corn catches a ghost's attention instantly, a minor incident can trigger a major response in certain people.

This expression is used to highlight the obvious origin of something or to indicate that the core essence (the rice) is hidden within a shell (the husk). It serves as a metaphor for looking beyond the external covering to find the true value or substance inside.

This proverb describes a situation where a person suffers a large loss while chasing a very small gain. It is used to mock poor planning or misplaced priorities where the effort to earn something tiny results in neglecting and losing something much more valuable.

This proverb describes a situation where a person suffers a large loss while trying to achieve a small gain. It is used to highlight poor prioritization or scenarios where the cost of an endeavor far outweighs the potential reward.

This proverb describes a situation where one incurs a massive loss while trying to save a small amount of money or while focusing on minor expenses. It is used to highlight poor management or irony when the overhead/accidental losses far exceed the actual cost of work.

This proverb describes a situation where the effort to earn a small gain results in a much larger loss. It is used when someone's attempt to save or earn a little bit of money backfires, leading to a significant setback or waste at home due to their absence or lack of oversight. (Note: A 'toomu' is a larger measurement than a 'kuncham'.)

A tūmu is a measure equal to 4 kunchams. One step forwards and two backwards.

This proverb describes someone who is eager to enjoy the benefits or rewards of a task but is unwilling to take on the labor or responsibility associated with it. It is used to mock people who want freebies but refuse to work for them.

This proverb is used to describe the inherent nature or qualities of different things. It signifies that every object or person has their own specific utility and characteristics, emphasizing that one should understand the natural state or the processed form of things to appreciate their value.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where something intended to be a secret is being done so loudly or obviously that everyone knows about it. It mocks the irony of people who claim to be discreet while creating a public spectacle.