తల్లిదే వలపక్షం, ధరణిదే వలపక్షం

Similar to the English proverb 'Birds of a feather flock together,' this expression is used to describe how people with similar characters, interests, or backgrounds naturally gravitate towards each other.

This expression is used to describe someone who lacks knowledge or skill in a particular area but excels in consumption or simple physical tasks. It highlights a contrast between a lack of intellectual depth ('illiterate') and a huge appetite or capacity for material indulgence. It is often used sarcastically to refer to someone who is more interested in eating than learning.

This proverb highlights the inherent bias or favoritism found even in the most fundamental figures of care. It is used to express that preference exists everywhere, suggesting that a mother might favor one child over another, just as the Earth might yield more fruitfully in one spot than another. It is often cited when someone feels treated unfairly or observes natural inequalities.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is uneducated or lacks intellectual depth (nirakshara kukshi) but has an insatiable appetite or a singular focus on material consumption. It suggests that for someone who doesn't spend time on learning or refinement, performing a task of indulgence—like eating a large number of sweets—is effortless and of no consequence.

This expression is used to describe a person who is fiercely impartial, strictly principled, or intensely destructive without bias. Just as a powerful fire consumes everything in its path without favoring its origin or its destination, this person treats allies and enemies with the same level of intensity or rigorous standards. It is often used to describe someone who does not show favoritism even to their own people when upholding justice or performing a duty.

This proverb is used to describe a state of utter neglect, lack of maintenance, or mismanagement of a property or household. It highlights a situation where, due to the absence or carelessness of the inhabitants, the premises have been completely overrun by pests.

This expression is used to describe food that is exceptionally delicious or exquisitely prepared. In Indian mythology, King Nala and Bhima (one of the Pandavas) were both legendary chefs known for their extraordinary culinary skills. When someone says a meal is like 'Nala-Bhima Pakamu', they are giving the highest possible compliment to the cook.

While the original proverb 'Udyogam Purusha Lakshanam' emphasizes that work/effort defines a person's character and dignity, this extended humorous or sarcastic version suggests that losing one's job or being unemployed is seen as a flaw or a social stigma. It is often used to highlight the societal pressure regarding employment and financial stability.

This expression means that a small flaw or a lapse in character can turn a virtue into a vice. It is used to caution people that maintaining one's good reputation or quality requires consistency, as even a minor deviation can lead to being perceived negatively.

There is a pun here on the word Lakshanam which as a noun signifies the ' rules of classic composition,' and as an adjective ' handsome.'—Ava- lakshanam means ' ugly,' ' deformed.'

These terms refer to exceptionally delicious food or superior culinary skills. In Hindu mythology, King Nala and the Pandava prince Bhima were renowned for their extraordinary cooking abilities. It is used as a compliment to describe a meal that is expertly prepared and tastes divine.