విన్నవన్నీ విశ్వసించవద్దు, విశ్వసించినవన్నీ వెలిబుచ్చవద్దు.

This expression refers to a double-edged or unreliable trust. It is used to describe a situation where someone's loyalty or commitment is solely dependent on their own profit or benefit, suggesting that their allegiance may shift as soon as the circumstances are no longer advantageous to them.

This traditional expression suggests that some people's loyalty or trust can be unpredictable and dangerous. It is used to caution someone about placing complete faith in individuals who might be fickle or potentially harmful, drawing a comparison to the inherent danger of befriending venomous snakes.

This proverb warns against underestimating potential dangers based on size or appearance. Just as even a small cobra possesses deadly venom, an opponent or enemy, regardless of how weak or diminished they may seem, can still cause significant harm. It is used to advise caution and vigilance.

This proverb advises discretion and skepticism. It cautions against being gullible by trusting all rumors or information received (hearsay), and simultaneously warns to be guarded with one's own thoughts and convictions rather than sharing them indiscriminately with everyone.

This proverb highlights the unfair irony often found in society where cunning or dishonest people (tātōtugāni) manage to enjoy luxuries like curd rice, while honest and loyal people (viśwāsamukalavāni) end up with the barest of necessities like plain rice and hot water. It is used to describe situations where merit and loyalty are undervalued compared to trickery.

This proverb is used to describe an ungrateful person who causes trouble for the very person who helped or supported them during a difficult time. It highlights the irony and bitterness of being betrayed by someone you served or rescued.

This proverb reflects a pragmatic and somewhat cynical view of human nature. It suggests that people only like those who provide them with something or give them money. The second part implies that a person's debts are effectively canceled or their accounts are settled only when they pass away, often used to comment on the difficulty of recovering debts or the fleeting nature of social approval based on transactions.

This proverb reflects a cynical observation of social injustice where deceitful or manipulative people (Taatotugadu) often enjoy luxuries and comforts, while honest and loyal people (Vishwasamu kalavadu) suffer in poverty or receive the bare minimum. It is used to describe situations where merit and loyalty are overlooked in favor of flattery or cunningness.

This expression is used to convey a sense of loyalty and gratitude. It highlights that one should never harm or betray their benefactor or savior. It is often used to show a commitment to integrity even when facing temptation.

Save a thief from the gallows, and he will be the first to cut your throat.

This proverb highlights two harsh realities of life: people only appreciate those who are generous or provide help, and once a person dies, their debts and obligations often perish with them, making it impossible to recover what was owed. It is used to describe the nature of gratitude and the finality of death regarding liabilities.