సుఖమెరుగని బ్రతుకు సున్నవేయని విడెము

This proverb emphasizes the importance of dignity and responsibility. It suggests that living without self-respect or social honor is loathsome. Additionally, it highlights the traditional social expectation that a man must be capable of providing for and protecting his wife, failing which his existence is seen as futile or disgraceful.

This traditional proverb reflects historical gender roles and social hierarchies. It suggests that a man's life or contribution is seen as substantial and central (a bowl full of food), while a woman's life is often perceived as supplementary or less significant (a single grain in liquid). It is used to describe the disparity in how society values the lives and roles of men and women.

This expression means that excellence or brilliance cannot be achieved without hard work, refinement, or practice. Just as a gem needs to be polished to sparkle, a person or a skill needs consistent effort and improvement to reach its full potential.

This expression is used to describe a person who, despite being handsome or seemingly respectable, lacks 'Ingitham' (the ability to understand social cues, basic manners, or situational awareness). It highlights the irony of a person having outward dignity but no practical sense of how to behave in a given situation.

This proverb is used to describe an irreversible situation or a wasted effort. Just as lime (chuna) applied to a wall cannot be reclaimed for consumption in a 'paan' (videnmu), money spent on useless things or help given to ungrateful people cannot be recovered or put to better use later.

This expression describes situations that are pointless or lack the essential element that makes them worthwhile. It refers to a restless, unrefreshing sleep and a meal served to someone who isn't hungry, implying that the true essence or benefit of the action is missing.

This expression is used to describe something that is given very reluctantly or something that is offered in such a small quantity that it is almost negligible. In traditional culture, Vaidika priests were known for their frugality and would often part with items (like betel leaves/taambulam) with great hesitation.

This proverb highlights the perceived vulnerability and fragility of a woman's life in traditional society. Like a banana leaf, which gets damaged whether it falls on a thorn or a thorn falls on it, a woman's reputation or life is seen as being easily affected by circumstances regardless of who is at fault.

This expression conveys the philosophical idea that every human life is governed by fate or luck (Bhagyam). It suggests that one's status, successes, or failures are ultimately determined by destiny rather than individual effort alone. It is often used in literary contexts or during philosophical discussions about the role of karma and fortune in human existence.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb often used to express the perceived vulnerability, hardships, or subordinate status women faced in social structures. It suggests that a woman's life is delicate or subject to many challenges. In modern contexts, it is sometimes used to reflect on the historical plight or difficulties specific to women's experiences.