స్వర్ణానికి వాసన, రత్నానికి రుచి ఉండదు

This proverb refers to a condition where one feels frequent or excessive hunger despite having indigestion or a stomach upset. Metaphorically, it is used to describe a situation where someone who is incapable or lacking in substance makes excessive demands or shows greedy desire for more than they can handle.

This expression is used to emphasize that one should only present or launch something once it has achieved the necessary quality, preparation, or readiness. It highlights the importance of refinement before public display or action.

This expression is used to highlight that certain things are inherently devoid of certain qualities, often in a cynical or philosophical context. Just as a gemstone is valued for its beauty and not its scent, selfishness is driven by personal gain and is completely indifferent to 'taste' (decency, ethics, or the feelings of others). It is often used to describe someone so consumed by self-interest that they lack any sense of moral refinement or empathy.

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks self-respect or fails to take a hint. It refers to someone who insists on attending an event or staying in a situation where they are clearly not welcome or have been explicitly disinvited, often by trying to justify their presence with superficial excuses.

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 is used to describe a person who is very eager and first to arrive when it is time to eat, but very lazy or hesitant when it comes to hygiene, work, or taking a bath. It highlights a character that prioritizes pleasure over duty or cleanliness.

This expression is used to suggest that there is no smoke without fire. It implies that a person wouldn't be accused or associated with a situation unless they had some involvement in it, or that every consequence has a specific root cause.

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 proverb describes a person who provides a very small or insignificant amount of help (a 'veesamu' was a tiny unit of currency) and expects an exorbitantly large return or attempts to take over a significant asset (the house beam). It is used to caution against opportunistic people who leverage minor favors to gain major control.

— Vâsam is a rafter ; ( the original word has been retained to preserve the jingle . )