తిండికి తిమ్మరాజు, పనికి పోతరాజు

This expression means that a person's negative traits or villainous nature are often only exposed or defined by the specific harmful actions they take against others. It is also used to suggest that certain events or outcomes are inextricably linked to specific actions or causes; without the catalyst (the captivity of Sita), the consequence (the downfall and recognition of Ravana as a villain) would not have occurred.

This proverb highlights the essential elements that enhance the beauty or value of something. Just as a well-styled hair-bun (koppu) completes a woman's appearance, appreciation and recognition (meppu) are the ultimate rewards and finishing touches for a poet's work.

In traditional agriculture, this proverb highlights the strategic value of specific land locations. Land situated at the foot of a hill (konda) or beneath an irrigation sluice (thumu) that is slightly elevated (meraka) is considered ideal because it benefits from water runoff while avoiding the risk of waterlogging or flooding, ensuring good drainage and crop yield.

This expression emphasizes the importance of gratitude and tradition. It suggests that eating without offering a small portion to God, ancestors, or nature (a practice known as 'dhara' or 'bali') is uncivilized or inauspicious. It is used to teach manners, spiritual mindfulness, and the value of sharing before consuming.

This traditional proverb emphasizes the cultural importance of hospitality and social structure. It suggests that a meal where one cannot ask for or receive a second serving (maaru) is considered poor or unfulfilling, while a meal eaten without a host or proper supervision (dora) is chaotic or unlucky, like food consumed by spirits.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of having a proper curry or accompaniment with a meal. In Telugu culture, eating plain rice without any flavor or side dish is considered poor etiquette or a sign of extreme misery, likened to how an animal might be fed.

This proverb is used to point out when someone is overcomplicating a simple task or seeking unnecessary, elaborate tools for a minor job. It suggests that common sense or minimal effort is sufficient for small problems.

This proverb is used to criticize people who lack basic necessities yet indulge in luxury or unnecessary expenses. It highlights a lack of priorities and the irony of vanity in the face of poverty.

This expression is used to describe a lazy person who avoids any kind of labor or responsibility but is always the first one to show up and show excitement when it comes to eating or enjoying benefits. It is a sarcastic way to critique someone's lack of work ethic.

This proverb describes a situation where an effort or resource is wasted without achieving the intended result, or when someone is blamed/burdened despite the situation not requiring it. It refers to a scenario where a pig is fed bran (tavida) to cure diarrhea (paaru), but even if the pig doesn't have the ailment, the bran is still consumed. It is used when expenses are incurred or sacrifices are made unnecessarily.