ఊరకరారు మహానుభావులు

This proverb defines the character of a truly noble person. It suggests that greatness is achieved not by status, but by avoiding three negative traits: boasting about oneself (Atmastuti), speaking ill of others (Paraninda), and being excessively greedy or materialistic (Arthapeksha). It is used to describe someone with high moral integrity and selfless character.

This expression is the Telugu equivalent of 'As you sow, so shall you reap.' It implies that a person must face the consequences of their actions, whether good or bad. It is often used in a moral or karmic context to suggest that one cannot escape the results of their deeds.

This proverb suggests that if a person works hard to accumulate wealth but never uses it for their own needs or enjoyment, that wealth is ultimately wasted or taken over by others (like the government or buried in the ground) after their death. It is used to advise people against extreme stinginess and to encourage them to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

This expression is similar to 'As you sow, so shall you reap.' It implies that the consequences of one's actions—whether good or bad—will inevitably catch up to them, often sooner than expected. It is used to remind people that their current deeds determine their future outcomes.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one person gets the formal credit or title, but the actual power, benefit, or utility is enjoyed by someone else. It highlights the disparity between nominal ownership and practical usage.

The name with one, the reality with another.

This expression is used to describe a situation where there is no distinction made between merit and ignorance, or where rewards are distributed equally regardless of character or capability. It highlights the irony of a virtuous person and a complete fool being treated the same way, often in terms of financial gain or status.

This expression is used to assert seniority or wisdom over someone younger. It implies that the speaker has seen and learned more from life than the listener has lived in total years. It is often used during arguments or when giving unsolicited advice to highlight a disparity in life experience.

This proverb emphasizes that resilience and the ability to face hardships are prerequisites for truly appreciating and handling success. It suggests that without the perspective or strength gained from bad times, one lacks the character or capacity to sustain good times.

This expression is used to acknowledge that when a wise or important person visits, they usually have a specific, significant purpose or a message to share. It emphasizes that the actions of great people are never random or without intent.

This expression is used to show deep humility and respect towards all the great people who have contributed to a field or society. It was famously coined by Saint Tyagaraja in his Pancharatna Kritis. In daily life, it is used when one wants to acknowledge that they are standing on the shoulders of many predecessors or when honoring a large group of distinguished individuals without singling anyone out.