రత్నానికి వాసనుంటుందా? స్వార్థానికి రుచుంటుందా?

This expression highlights the inherent and unchangeable nature of beings. Just as a tiger is naturally predatory and cannot show mercy, a virtuous or divine person is naturally selfless and cannot act out of greed. It is used to describe how people act according to their fundamental character.

This proverb is used to convey that something which is spoiled, outdated, or past its prime cannot be restored to its original good state. It suggests that once an opportunity is lost or a person/situation has deteriorated beyond a certain point, no amount of effort can make it useful or 'ripe' again.

This expression is used to describe a situation where something is explained so clearly and simply that it requires no effort to understand. It is similar to the English phrase 'making it crystal clear' or 'handing it on a silver platter.'

This proverb is used to describe an extremely stingy person. It suggests that if someone is so miserly that they hesitate to provide even the bare minimum during a period of total fasting (lankanam), they will certainly compromise or reduce the quality further when it comes to a regular restricted diet (pathyam). It implies that a person's stingy nature remains constant or worsens regardless of the necessity.

This proverb describes how habits formed while handling trivial or low-value items will persist when dealing with valuable things. It is often used to warn that someone who steals small things will eventually steal large amounts, or that discipline in small matters leads to discipline in large ones.

This expression refers to the sequence of daily routines or the priority of tasks. It is often used to describe someone who is very punctual or eager for food (being first at the table) but perhaps less enthusiastic about chores or preparation (being last to bathe). In a broader sense, it highlights a tendency to prioritize personal comfort or enjoyment over effort.

This expression means that a person of high quality, talent, or noble character does not lose their inherent value just because they are in a poor environment or associated with something of low quality. The value of the individual remains intact regardless of their surroundings.

This expression is used to describe someone who tries to negotiate or compromise when they are asked to do something difficult or extreme. It refers to a person who, when told to fast completely (Lankanam) for health reasons, tries to negotiate down to a restricted diet (Pathyam) instead of following the full instruction.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one trip or action serves two purposes: a spiritual or selfless duty and a personal or selfish gain. It is similar to the English expression 'killing two birds with one stone,' but specifically refers to achieving a personal benefit while performing a righteous or necessary task.

This proverb is used to describe the concept of inherent limitations or missing qualities even in things that are otherwise perfect or highly valuable. It suggests that nothing in the world is absolutely perfect in every single aspect, or that certain things have specific functions and should not be expected to possess unrelated attributes.