విగ్రహ పుష్టి, నైవేద్య నష్టి

This proverb emphasizes that while animals derive their strength solely from physical food, human beings require mental satisfaction and contentment (shanti) to be truly healthy and strong. It suggests that a person's well-being is more dependent on their state of mind and what they possess spiritually/mentally than just physical nourishment.

This proverb describes how a person who is too greedy or miserly often ends up losing everything. It is used when someone's attempt to save a small amount of money or resources leads to a greater loss in two or more ways, or when they lose both the original investment and the expected gain.

* वरमेको गुणी पुत्रो न च मूर्खशतैरपि। एकश्चन्द्रस्तमो हन्ति न च तारागणैरपि॥

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone is asking for a favor or a gift from a person who is already in deep financial distress or lacking basic necessities themselves. It highlights the irony of demanding something from someone who has nothing to give.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the primary or most important people are suffering from lack of basic necessities, while those who are secondary or dependent on them are enjoying luxuries. It highlights an irony in the distribution of resources or attention, where the foundation is neglected in favor of the outward display.

Mūlavigrahās are the large idols made of stone which always remain in the temple; the Utsavigrahās are, as the name denotes, the smaller images that are carried in procession. Forwardness. Impertinent demands.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the primary or most important people are suffering from lack of basic needs, while subordinates or secondary entities are enjoying luxuries. It highlights irony in the distribution of resources or attention, where the foundation is neglected in favor of the superficial.

This expression refers to the interconnectedness of prosperity at home and physical health. It suggests that when a household is well-provisioned and abundant (nutritious food, wealth, peace), the individuals living there will naturally be healthy and robust. It is used to emphasize that one's physical well-being is often a reflection of their domestic stability.

This proverb contrasts the sources of well-being for humans and animals. It suggests that while cattle require physical fodder to grow strong and healthy, a human's strength or contentment often comes from their inner state, character, or the assets and support system they possess. It is used to emphasize that human fulfillment goes beyond mere physical consumption.

This expression is a play on words using 'Mushti' (which can mean both 'a fist' and 'begging/alms'). It highlights the ironic situation where someone who is already poor or a beggar themselves tries to help another beggar. It is used to describe an act of charity performed by those who have very little to give, emphasizing that even the smallest act of kindness from the poor is significant.

This proverb is used when the pleasure or satisfaction derived from an action is completely offset or negated by the resulting loss or trouble. It describes a break-even situation where the gain was not worth the cost, or where the damage done balances out the enjoyment felt.

This proverb highlights the difference between physical needs and social security. While animals thrive purely on food, a human's well-being and status in society are determined by their wealth, assets, or family support. It is used to emphasize that material or social security is as vital for humans as nutrition is for animals.