తాటిచెట్టు నీడ నీడకాదు, తగులుకున్నవాడు మొగుడు కాదు

This proverb highlights the instability and unpredictability of powerful people (lords/masters) and nature. Just as the shade of a tree moves as the sun changes position, the favors or moods of those in power are never constant and cannot be relied upon for long-term security.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is completely useless or miserly. Just as a cactus neither provides edible fruit nor sufficient shade for a traveler, some individuals possess neither a helpful nature nor resources that benefit others. It is typically applied to people from whom no help or kindness can be expected.

Jemuḍu is the Euphorbia Tirucalli.

This proverb highlights that not everything that appears beneficial is actually helpful. The shade of a date palm is too sparse to provide relief, and while a palmyra tree is tall and useful, it lacks the nurturing quality of a mother. It is used to describe things or people that are inadequate despite their outward appearance or status.

This proverb highlights the transitory or unreliable nature of certain things. Just as the castor oil plant is too small and thin to provide substantial or lasting shade, a son-in-law's primary allegiance is to his own family, making his presence in the natal family's affairs temporary or unreliable in the long run. It is used to caution against over-dependence on people or things that lack depth or permanence.

This proverb is used to warn against seeking comfort or reliability in things that are inherently hazardous or provide no real protection. Just as a palm tree provides very little shade or shelter (making it a poor 'home') and is often associated with intoxicants (toddy), one should not expect nourishment or maternal care from unreliable sources.

This expression highlights the items or people that truly belong to a person and provide real security or status. It is used to emphasize that only what is legally yours or physically in your possession can be relied upon in times of need or social standing.

This proverb describes a state of indecision or lack of productivity where a person is caught between two tasks and ends up doing neither properly. It is used to mock someone who pretends to be busy but accomplishes nothing, or someone who fails to commit to either work or leisure, resulting in a waste of time.

This proverb highlights things that lack permanence or reliability. Just as the shade of a tall, thin palm tree shifts rapidly and offers no real shelter, an illicit or informal relationship lacks legal or social security. It is used to describe situations or people that cannot be depended upon in the long run.

This traditional proverb suggests that certain relationships formed through convenience or external arrangements may lack the genuine legal, social, or biological permanence of original roles. It is often used to imply that something acquired or temporary cannot fully replace the original or legitimate version.

This proverb reflects traditional social views on legitimacy and formal bonds. It suggests that informal relationships or foster care do not equate to the legal and social status of a marriage or biological lineage. It is often used to emphasize that titles or roles earned through convenience or temporary arrangements lack the permanence and sanctity of formal, recognized institutions.