బ్రతుకుటకై తినవలెనుగాని, తినుటకై బ్రతుకరాదు

This traditional proverb reflects historical gender roles and social hierarchies. It suggests that a man's life or contribution is seen as substantial and central (a bowl full of food), while a woman's life is often perceived as supplementary or less significant (a single grain in liquid). It is used to describe the disparity in how society values the lives and roles of men and women.

This expression is used to describe someone who is articulate, persuasive, or assertive in their speech. It implies that a person who knows how to speak up for themselves, communicate effectively, or negotiate will always find a way to succeed or survive in any situation, regardless of other challenges.

This expression means that a clever or resourceful person can survive anywhere by using their intelligence. It highlights that wit and strategic thinking are more valuable than physical labor or inherited wealth for one's livelihood.

This expression is used to describe the pinnacle of excellence in a specific category. It implies that if one wants to experience the best of something, they should choose the absolute finest. The Mahabharata is considered the greatest epic to listen to, just as Garelu (deep-fried lentil donuts) are considered the most delicious traditional snack to eat.

This proverb is a satirical take on professions that profit regardless of the outcome. It suggests that if a sick person recovers, the doctor earns money and fame, but if the person dies, the priest earns fees for performing the funeral rites. It is used to describe situations where certain parties benefit from both success and failure.

This proverb suggests that a person of high character, power, or confidence should not be bothered by the petty criticisms or insults of small-minded people. It is used to advise someone to ignore insignificant distractions or critics when they are focused on a great goal.

This proverb highlights the perceived vulnerability and fragility of a woman's life in traditional society. Like a banana leaf, which gets damaged whether it falls on a thorn or a thorn falls on it, a woman's reputation or life is seen as being easily affected by circumstances regardless of who is at fault.

This proverb describes a situation where a person is entirely dependent on a specific source or benefactor for their livelihood. It implies that someone will naturally stay where they are being fed or supported, as they have no other means of survival elsewhere. It is often used to describe loyalists, dependents, or those who lack the independence to move away from their current situation.

* Tra asino e asino, non corron se non caldi. † Aux grandes mains les grandes remèdes. 18 ( 137 )

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone takes on a task far beyond their capacity or consumes resources they cannot digest. It implies that over-ambition or greed leading to actions beyond one's strength or status will eventually lead to one's downfall or destruction.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb often used to express the perceived vulnerability, hardships, or subordinate status women faced in social structures. It suggests that a woman's life is delicate or subject to many challenges. In modern contexts, it is sometimes used to reflect on the historical plight or difficulties specific to women's experiences.