తాళము పోయినంత మాత్రాన పెట్టె తెరవలేమా?

This expression emphasizes the supreme value of dignity and self-respect over physical life. It is used to convey that for a person of principles, living with disgrace or humiliation is worse than death.

Take away my good name, and take away my life. Either live or die wi' honour.

This expression is used to highlight that starting a project or having one component of a larger task does not mean the task is complete. It emphasizes that a single effort or a superficial beginning is not equivalent to a finished achievement, often used to humble someone who is overconfident after only making a small start.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone prioritizes an outsider or a distant relative over their own family, only to end up losing everything. It highlights the folly of misplaced priorities and the resulting regret when a primary responsibility is neglected for a secondary one.

This expression is used to highlight that external appearances, religious symbols, or a change in attire do not change a person's inherent character or malicious intent. It is often used to criticize hypocrites who pretend to be virtuous while remaining deceptive or cruel at heart.

This expression is used to convey that the status or reputation of a great person is not diminished by the petty criticisms or insults of insignificant or inferior people. It suggests that one should ignore baseless noise and maintain their composure.

This expression emphasizes the extreme importance of integrity and keeping one's promises. In traditional contexts, it compares the loss of a person's reputation or honor (symbolized by broken promises) to the irreversible loss of virtue, suggesting that living without honor or credibility is a heavy burden.

This proverb suggests that one should not expect any benefit, hospitality, or return from an enemy. Even if you give or lose something valuable to an adversary, it should be considered a total loss because an enemy will never acknowledge the gesture or reciprocate. It is used to advise people to avoid dealings with those who harbor ill-will.

This proverb describes a situation where someone lets their anger or ego cause them to miss out on a great opportunity or a joyful event. It refers to a woman who, after arguing with her mother-in-law, leaves the village in a huff, thereby missing the grand chariot festival (Teeru) she had been waiting for. It is used to caution against self-defeating behavior driven by spite.

This expression emphasizes that one's dignity, honor, and self-respect are more valuable than life itself. It is used to encourage standing by one's principles or integrity, even in the face of extreme danger or death.

This proverb suggests that one should not expect help or goodwill from an enemy. Even if they appear to give something or help you, it is likely temporary, unreliable, or comes with hidden strings that ultimately result in a loss for you. It emphasizes the importance of self-respect and the futility of depending on those who wish you ill.