ఉల్లి పది తల్లుల పెట్టు

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone faces double trouble or a series of unfortunate events simultaneously. It conveys the idea of being hit by problems from multiple directions at once, leaving the person overwhelmed.

Misfortunes seldom come alone.

This traditional Telugu saying emphasizes that even a simple common cold should not be taken lightly. It implies that a cold can cause as much physical discomfort, weakness, and irritation as ten different ailments combined, or that it can be the starting point for many other health complications.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone prioritizes an outsider or a distant relative over their own family, only to end up losing everything. It highlights the folly of misplaced priorities and the resulting regret when a primary responsibility is neglected for a secondary one.

This proverb describes a situation where one makes a significant sacrifice or does something unpleasant (like eating pungent garlic) in hopes of a specific benefit, only to find that the effort was futile and the problem persists. It is used when a difficult remedy fails to yield the expected results.

This expression is used to describe a situation where everything is in a state of disrepair or utter failure. It refers to a person or a project lacking the basic resources to function correctly, much like trying to draw water with a snapped rope and a pot full of holes. It signifies total uselessness or an impossible task due to poor tools.

This expression describes a person who speaks very kindly and affectionately but fails to provide any actual help or substance. It is used to point out the hypocrisy of someone whose actions do not match their sweet words, particularly in contexts of hospitality or generosity.

Said of a step mother.

This proverb is used to mock someone who tries to sound superior or important in a group where everyone is essentially of the same status or rank. It highlights a false sense of hierarchy or self-importance among equals.

This proverb implies that the actions, virtues, or sins of a mother directly influence the destiny and character of her children. It is often used to emphasize that a family's legacy or current situation is a result of the mother's past deeds or upbringing.

If she sin, her children are disgraced.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone receives a punishment or a harsh consequence that they practically invited upon themselves through their mischievous or annoying behavior. It implies that a person's 'itch' for trouble was cured by a 'heavy blow' of reality or discipline.

This proverb is used to describe a place or a group that is a breeding ground for mischief-makers or wicked people. 'Palugakulu' refers to vile or wicked individuals, and the saying implies that a specific location (historically Parlapalli) is the source or the ultimate hub for such characters.