తనకు రొట్టె, ఇతరులకు ముక్క

This proverb highlights the unpredictable nature of rain-dependent (dry-land) farming. It suggests that such a farmer's wealth or food supply is limited and contained, much like a small box. It is often used to describe someone whose livelihood is entirely dependent on nature's mercy and lacks surplus stability.

This proverb highlights the physical and social hardships of old age. It suggests that while many things in life can be unpleasant, the infirmity, dependency, and loss of dignity often associated with extreme old age are the most difficult to endure.

This expression refers to a situation where a mediator takes advantage of two quarreling parties for their own gain. It is based on a fable where a monkey, asked to settle a dispute between two cats over a piece of bread, eats the entire bread bit by bit while pretending to equalize the portions. It is used to warn against letting a cunning third party intervene in a dispute.

This expression is used when someone requests help or a specific favor but receives something useless, harmful, or completely contrary to their needs. It highlights a situation of disappointment where a genuine plea is met with indifference or hostility.

This proverb highlights that wealth accumulated by a miser, who refuses to spend it on themselves or for good causes, eventually ends up in the hands of the government or unintended, unworthy people after their death. It is used to suggest that hoarding wealth without enjoying it or helping others is futile.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a less experienced person tries to give advice or teach someone who is far more experienced and seasoned than themselves. It highlights the irony of a novice patronizing a veteran.

This is the Telugu equivalent of the 'Three Wise Monkeys' principle. It serves as a moral guideline to avoid evil: do not listen to evil, do not speak evil, and do not see evil. It is used to encourage people to maintain purity of mind and avoid participating in gossip or negativity.

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely stubborn, unyielding, or remains unaffected by circumstances that influence everyone else. It signifies resilience or, in a negative sense, someone who refuses to budge or change their stance regardless of the pressure or situation around them.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb highlighting that different varieties of crops require specific types of fertilization. Just as a late-season rice crop (Kaaruvari) thrives with the intense manure from a sheep fold, coarse or resilient crops (Pishanalu) are best supported by green leaf manure (Rotta). It is used to emphasize the importance of using appropriate methods for specific tasks.

This proverb refers to the Indian astrological lunar mansions (Nakshatras). It suggests that the Makha Nakshatra period is known for heavy rainfall, while the Chitta Nakshatra period is associated with the breeding season or increased activity of dogs. It is used to describe the characteristic traits or expected behaviors of specific seasonal periods.