విషపాళపు విత్తు నేపాళపు గింజ

This proverb is used to suggest that the inherent nature or quality of a person or object cannot be changed through external efforts. It implies that someone of low character or a low-quality item cannot suddenly transform into something of high value or nobility, similar to the English expression 'You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear.'

This expression is used to highlight the obvious origin of something or to indicate that the core essence (the rice) is hidden within a shell (the husk). It serves as a metaphor for looking beyond the external covering to find the true value or substance inside.

This expression is used to describe something that is blatantly obvious or a self-evident truth presented as if it were a profound secret. It mocks situations where someone tries to reveal common knowledge as a major discovery or when a 'secret' is essentially the core nature of the object itself.

This proverb describes a situation where a person suffers a large loss while trying to achieve a small gain. It is used to highlight poor prioritization or scenarios where the cost of an endeavor far outweighs the potential reward.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone's stubborn romantic obsession or infatuation is driven by ego or pride. It suggests that until their arrogance (balupu) is humbled by reality or hardship, their irrational desire (valapu) will not subside. It is often applied to people who need a reality check to stop acting on foolish impulses.

This proverb describes a situation where the effort to earn a small gain results in a much larger loss. It is used when someone's attempt to save or earn a little bit of money backfires, leading to a significant setback or waste at home due to their absence or lack of oversight. (Note: A 'toomu' is a larger measurement than a 'kuncham'.)

A tūmu is a measure equal to 4 kunchams. One step forwards and two backwards.

This proverb is used to say that people or things of low quality or character cannot be transformed into something of high value or excellence just by wishing it. It emphasizes that inherent nature remains unchanged and is often used as a retort when someone tries to compare something mediocre to something superior.

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely malicious, hateful, or full of wicked intentions. It metaphorically represents someone whose entire character is composed of 'poisonous' traits.

This expression is used to describe a person who is inherently wicked or malicious from birth. It implies that just as these specific seeds are naturally toxic and cannot be made wholesome, some people are fundamentally ill-natured and their character cannot be reformed.

* Che sarà, sarà.

This proverb suggests that things do not change their inherent nature simply because of their environment. Just as a neem tree remains bitter even if it grows near a source of fresh water like a well, a person's core character or the fundamental quality of a thing remains unchanged regardless of external circumstances.