ఉల్లి ఉంటే మల్లి వంటలక్కే

This proverb is used to emphasize that an object's or person's inherent nature cannot be changed just because of outward similarities or pretension. Just as an onion's smell prevents it from being a jasmine, and a crow's appearance doesn't make it a melodic cuckoo, intrinsic traits define true character.

This proverb is used to highlight that certain things have inherent limitations and can never replace the original or the ideal. Just as an onion's pungent smell can never match the fragrance of a jasmine, a temporary or illegitimate relationship cannot provide the status, stability, or respect of a legal marriage.

This proverb highlights how having the right resources or ingredients can make anyone look skilled or successful. It suggests that certain key elements (like onions in Indian cooking) are so fundamental that they can make even an amateur's work seem professional. It is used to mock someone's sudden 'talent' when it's actually the favorable circumstances or tools doing the heavy lifting.

This is a humorous and rhythmic proverb used to describe a situation where a resource or item passes through several hands rapidly and vanishes before the intended purpose is served or before the original owner can benefit. It often refers to mismanagement, lack of accountability, or a chain of events where something is quickly used up or lost.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person, due to their lack of common sense or foolishness, fails to complete a task or secure a significant opportunity and returns empty-handed. It highlights an act of incompetence where one misses the very purpose of their journey or effort.

This proverb describes someone who is very vocal, boastful, or makes grand promises (Malli) but is completely absent or disappears when it comes time to actually do the work (Elli). It is used to criticize people who talk a lot but never follow through with action.

This proverb emphasizes the deep emotional connection and debt of gratitude one owes to their birthplace or hometown. Just as a mother nurtures and protects her child, the place where one grows up provides sustenance, identity, and a sense of belonging. It is used to encourage patriotism, loyalty to one's roots, or to remind someone never to forget their origins.

This proverb is used to express that wherever there is a society or a larger structure, there will naturally be a working class or diverse sections associated with it. In a broader context, it implies that certain consequences or accompanying elements are inevitable given a specific situation.

This proverb is used to describe a person who behaves contrary to the general trend or logic of their surroundings. It highlights an ironic or defiant situation where someone claims or exhibits something high-end or beautiful (jasmine) while everyone else is dealing with something common or pungent (onions).

This proverb highlights the critical importance of rainfall for agriculture. It signifies that timely rains lead to prosperity and food security (crops), whereas a lack of rain leads to drought, starvation, and economic devastation (metaphorically referred to as fires/suffering).