తాటిచెట్లకు గంధం పూసినట్లు

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone's natural talent, beauty, or great reputation is hidden or tarnished by poor circumstances, bad company, or intentional sabotage. It implies that while the underlying value (the ruby) remains, its outward brilliance is temporarily obscured by something worthless (the soot).

This expression is used to describe a situation where something pure, auspicious, or beautiful is ruined by the addition of something foul, inferior, or inappropriate. It is often used when a great piece of work or a positive atmosphere is spoiled by a single bad element or a rude remark.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is so engrossed in their work or a specific activity that they lose track of time and don't realize it is getting late. It can also imply a subtle delay or a state of being unaware of the passing time due to one's surroundings.

The Vempali (Wild Indigo) is a small, weak-stemmed shrub that cannot support any weight. This expression is used to describe a futile effort or an impossible task where someone tries to rely on something that lacks the necessary strength or foundation. It signifies misplaced effort or depending on an unreliable source.

This expression is used to mock something that is non-existent, absurd, or completely worthless. Since donkeys do not lay eggs, it refers to a 'wild goose chase' or a deceptive promise of something that doesn't exist. It is often used to dismiss a person's tall claims or to describe a situation where one gets nothing out of a lot of effort.

This expression describes something that is incredibly rare or practically impossible to find. Just as one wouldn't expect to find a fish (booraga) in dry sandalwood powder, it is used to mock an absurd situation or to describe a search that is futile because the object doesn't belong in that environment.

This expression refers to being harmed by someone or something that is generally perceived as harmless, saintly, or trustworthy. It describes an unexpected betrayal or injury from a source where one only expected goodness or safety.

This expression is used to describe something that appears attractive, sweet, or beneficial on the surface but is actually harmful or dangerous underneath. It is often applied to deceptive words, treacherous people, or tempting offers that have hidden negative consequences.

A flattering speech is honeyed poison. (Latin.)* Sugared words generally prove bitter. (Spanish.)†

This expression is used to describe someone who is overly decorated, living in extreme luxury, or showing off their prosperity and well-being. It signifies a state of being perfectly groomed and content, often used to remark on someone's high-status appearance or their indulgence in comforts.

This expression is used to describe a situation where time passes by unnoticed or where one is delayed/distracted by many small tasks. Just as it is difficult to see exactly when the sun sets when you are in a dense grove of tall palmyra trees, this phrase refers to the deceptive nature of time or things that happen gradually without being obvious.