విద్యలేని బ్రాహ్మడు కత్తిలేని క్షత్రియుడు

This proverb is used sarcastically to describe someone who claims to be virtuous or disciplined only because they lack the means to be otherwise. Just as a poor man cannot afford the expenses of marriage or indulgence, his 'abstinence' is seen as a result of his poverty rather than his character.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of a mentor or guide in the learning process. It suggests that self-taught knowledge without proper guidance can be incomplete, directionless, or prone to errors, much like a person walking in the dark without sight.

This is a traditional Telugu saying used to emphasize the gravity of hurting or killing a cat, suggesting it is equivalent to the sin of killing a Brahmin (Brahmahatya Patakam). It is often used to discourage animal cruelty or to mock superstitious beliefs regarding the consequences of accidentally harming a cat.

This expression is used to describe something that lacks sense, logic, or harmony. Just as a song without a proper scale (shruti) is unpleasant to hear, words spoken without thought or intelligence are useless and irritating. It is often used to dismiss nonsensical arguments or irrelevant chatter.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one's existing misfortunes are compounded by even more trouble or incompetence. It suggests that when a person is already in a helpless or poor state, they often end up with additional burdens that make their situation worse, rather than better.

This proverb highlights the importance of companionship. Just as a top cannot be spun or controlled without a string, a person's life is seen as directionless, unstable, or incomplete without a life partner or soulmate to support and balance them.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an already difficult or miserable circumstance is made worse by poor companionship or inadequate support. It signifies the misfortune of someone who, being in a vulnerable state, ends up with a partner or resource that is incompetent or useless.

This proverb is used to describe something that seems incredibly complex, mysterious, or impossible until you learn the secret or logic behind it. Once the skill is mastered or the trick is revealed, it appears trivial or simple. It is often used to encourage learners or to humble those who act as if their simple skills are profound.

Every thing is easy when you know it. All things are difficult before they are easy. All beginnings are hard, said the thief, and began by stealing an anvil. (Dutch.)* *Alle beginnings zijn zwaar, zei de dief, en voor de eerste maal stal hij een aanbeeld.

This expression is used to mock someone who puts on a false show of extreme piety, innocence, or virtue. It describes a hypocrite who pretends to be saintly while harboring deceitful intentions or having a questionable character.

This proverb highlights that a leader's lack of competence or qualification often results in subordinates who lack discipline or respect. It is used to describe situations where the quality of leadership directly dictates the poor behavior or performance of those being managed.