తామరాకుపై నీటిబొట్టువలె

This expression describes a state of detachment or instability. Just as water stays on a lotus leaf without getting absorbed or sticking to it, it represents a person who remains unaffected by worldly attachments or circumstances despite living among them. It can also describe something that is fleeting or precarious.

This proverb emphasizes the dignity of labor and the reward of hard work. It suggests that one should work with extreme humility and diligence (like a servant) in order to eventually enjoy a life of luxury and comfort (like a master/lord). It is used to encourage someone to put in hard effort now for a better future.

This expression is used to describe a person who narrowly escapes a fatal situation or survives a life-threatening crisis just in time for a significant event, often implying that their spouse's luck or the sanctity of their marriage (represented by the wedding thread) protected them.

This proverb is used to describe how a person's status, character, or achievements are often reflective of their environment, upbringing, or the resources available to them. It is frequently cited from Vemana's poems to suggest that one's greatness is proportionate to their inner depth and the company they keep.

This expression is used to describe a situation where things are progressing very easily, naturally, or without any resistance. Just as walking downhill requires little effort, it signifies a smooth and effortless process.

This proverb is used to mock someone who fails at a simple, basic task but makes grand claims about achieving something much more difficult or impossible. It highlights the gap between one's actual abilities and their unrealistic ambitions.

This expression is used sarcastically to tell someone that they only escaped a dangerous situation or a severe beating by pure luck or because of some divine/external protection (like the sanctity of marriage), rather than their own merit. It implies a narrow escape from a deserved punishment.

This expression is used to describe a person who lacks a strong individual will or firm stance, and is easily influenced or manipulated by whoever is currently in control of them. It suggests a state of dependency or vulnerability where one's actions are directed by others rather than their own judgment.

This expression is used to describe a person who wanders around aimlessly, without any responsibilities or restrictions, often behaving in a headstrong or arrogant manner. In rural tradition, bulls branded and dedicated to a deity were left free to roam the village and eat anywhere, answerable to no one.

This expression is used to describe someone who is extremely demanding, fastidious, or difficult to please, yet expects the most luxurious treatment. It highlights the irony of providing high-quality items (like rice roti and ghee) to someone who does nothing but complain or nag.