తద్దినము నాటి జంధ్యము

This expression is used to highlight the decline in quality, health, or size of things over generations. It suggests that what was considered small or ordinary in the past (like a green gram) is comparable or superior to what is considered significant today (like a pigeon pea), emphasizing the strength and richness of the olden days.

This proverb is used to describe a situation or task that is impossible to perform because the essential information is missing. Since a prostitute's son may not know his biological father, he cannot perform the specific ritual ('Taddinam'). It refers to futile efforts or tasks that lack a logical starting point.

This expression refers to a statement or testimony that is ambiguous, non-committal, or clever enough to avoid taking a definitive side. It is used to describe a situation where someone speaks in a way that protects their own interests while technically answering a question, often leaving the listener in confusion.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone performs a task or fulfills an obligation with great reluctance, lack of interest, or while complaining, rather than doing it willingly or happily. It implies that the person is doing something just for the sake of finishing it, often ruining the spirit of the activity.

This proverb is a humorous take on hypocritical devotion or selective surrender. It describes a person who claims to surrender everything valuable (like life and wealth) to a mentor or God for the sake of appearance, but in reality, keeps the physical control (the key to the chest) and their own comfort firmly in their own hands. It is used to mock people who act as if they are selfless but remain deeply possessive and untrusting.

This proverb is used to say that a well-known person or an obvious truth does not need any further proof or introduction. It highlights that when someone's identity or reputation is established globally, external symbols or credentials become redundant.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone unnecessarily invites trouble or a burden upon themselves through their own actions. It implies that a problem which didn't exist was intentionally 'purchased' or brought home by the individual.

This proverb satirically describes a person who pretends to surrender everything to a teacher or mentor but remains deeply attached to their physical comforts and material possessions. It is used to mock hypocritical devotion or someone who talks about sacrifice but keeps the most important resources for themselves.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone voluntarily invites trouble or creates a headache for themselves by their own actions or choices. It is similar to the English expression 'to go looking for trouble' or 'asking for it.'

* Alterâ manu scabunt, altera ferunt.

This expression is used to describe something that is done at the very last minute or is desperately sought when it is already too late. It refers to the ritual requirement of having a new sacred thread for a ceremony, but only realizing it's missing or trying to prepare it exactly when the ritual is supposed to start.