తిండికి ముందు, దండుకు వెనుక.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an experienced person or someone who arrived early is neglected or treated with indifference, while a newcomer or a later arrival receives excessive attention, special treatment, or pampered care. It highlights the irony of human nature where novelty is often valued over experience or seniority.

In Telugu culture, sneezing is often considered an ill omen when starting a task. However, this specific proverb suggests that if someone sneezes from behind you as you are about to leave or start something, it is actually a positive sign or a good omen for the future success of that endeavor.

This proverb advises on social etiquette and common sense. Being the first to bathe (in a public or shared ritual setting) might mean dealing with cold water or unpreparedness, while being last for a 'Sambhavana' (a traditional monetary gift or honorarium) might mean the funds or gifts run out before your turn. It is often used to suggest that one should time their actions wisely to avoid inconvenience or loss.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is driven primarily by jealousy. It suggests that such a person's envy is so prominent that it precedes them, while their actual identity or other characteristics follow behind. It is often used to criticize someone whose actions are entirely motivated by spite or the inability to see others prosper.

This expression is used to describe a lazy person who is always eager and the first to arrive when it's time to eat, but avoids responsibility or lags behind when there is work to be done. It highlights a lack of work ethic and selfishness.

This proverb advises caution and foresight in two different contexts. In the physical sense, one should check water/liquid before drinking to ensure it is clean. In the context of writing or documentation, one must 'look behind' or review what has been written to check for errors or unintended consequences before finalizing it.

This proverb is used to describe a 'catch-22' or a 'no-win' situation where every available option leads to a negative or unpleasant outcome. It is similar to the English expressions 'between a rock and a hard place' or 'between the devil and the deep blue sea.'

This proverb advises caution and strategic positioning. Walking in front of someone carrying hot water risks getting splashed if they trip. Walking behind someone carrying a heavy load (vetty) is dangerous because the load might fall backward or the person might suddenly drop it. It teaches one to stay alert to their surroundings and avoid positions where others' accidents can cause them harm.

This expression describes a lazy person who is always the first to show up when food or rewards are being distributed, but the last to volunteer or show up when there is actual work to be done. It is used to mock opportunistic laziness.

This proverb highlights human nature regarding pleasure versus responsibility. It implies that people are usually eager and first in line when it comes to enjoying treats or drinks, but they are hesitant and stay in the background when it comes to work, documentation, or taking official responsibility.