ఉంటే లిక్కి, లేకపోతే కొడవలి

This proverb is used to humble someone who thinks they are indispensable. It suggests that the world will continue to function and progress even without a specific person's involvement or presence. It highlights that natural laws and necessary events are not dependent on any single individual.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone minimizes the value of a lost or broken object. When the object was available, it was treated as something small or insignificant (likki), but once it is lost, the owner exaggerates its value or utility, claiming it was a much more important tool (sickle). It highlights the human tendency to overvalue things only after they are gone.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone settles for a substitute or an alternative when the original or preferred choice is unavailable. It highlights the human tendency to find a replacement, sometimes even an inappropriate or simplified one, just to fill a void.

This proverb describes a situation where one settles for a less-than-ideal or makeshift option because there are no other alternatives available. It is often used to comment on choosing someone or something as a last resort when the primary or better options are missing.

This is a sarcastic expression used to describe someone who, when they lack basic necessities, demands or expects high-end luxuries instead of seeking practical alternatives. It highlights the irony of having extravagant tastes or unrealistic expectations while being in a state of poverty or deprivation.

Said by an impertinent beggar when refused assistance by a stingy person.

This expression is used to humble someone who believes they are indispensable. It suggests that the world does not stop for one person and that natural or necessary events will occur regardless of a specific individual's contribution or presence.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of communication and social interaction. It suggests that if you do not speak or express yourself properly, you will not find a place for yourself in society or in a specific situation. It is often used to encourage people to speak up or to highlight that social status and inclusion are built through speech and reputation.

This expression is used to describe a person who pretends to be lazy, weak, or incapable when asked to do work, but becomes extremely quick, active, and energetic when it comes to their own interests, food, or play.

This proverb describes a state of extreme uncertainty or a 'make or break' situation. It refers to a person who is currently in a precarious position where they will either achieve a respectable, stable status (represented by the Balija community) or fall into a lifestyle of wandering and performance (represented by the Bhogam community) depending on the outcome of their current struggle.

This expression is used to describe a person who becomes arrogant, lazy, or reckless once their basic needs are met or when they achieve prosperity. It refers to someone who forgets their struggles and destroys the very tools or resources that helped them, simply because they no longer feel the immediate pressure of necessity.