విత్తహీనుడు ధర్మవృత్తి దలచు

This proverb describes a situation where someone loses a valuable asset or dignity to satisfy a trivial or small debt/tax. It is used to critique short-sighted decisions where the cost of a solution far outweighs the value of the problem being solved, often resulting in a loss of social standing or livelihood.

This expression is used to describe a person who appears very soft-spoken, gentle, and virtuous on the outside (like Yudhisthira/Dharmasuta) but is actually dangerous, cunning, or ruthless like a tiger on the inside. It refers to a wolf in sheep's clothing.

This expression is used to describe a person whose name or outward appearance suggests they are noble or virtuous, but whose actual character or behavior is harsh, bitter, or wicked. It highlights the irony of someone having a positive identity while performing negative actions.

This expression is used to signify that events from the past often happen again in a similar way in the present or future. It is used in political, social, or personal contexts to suggest that human nature or patterns of behavior lead to recurring outcomes.

This proverb implies that there is no point in seeking help or charity from a miserly person. One should approach a person with a generous heart (Tyagi) if they expect to receive help or perform a righteous deed. It emphasizes seeking out the right person for the right cause.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one person's hard work or merit results in a success, but another person tries to take the credit for the associated benefits or accessories. It highlights the irony of misplaced gratitude or credit-seeking.

This proverb suggests that without good fortune or luck, one cannot benefit even from the greatest opportunities or wealth. Alakapuri is the legendary city of Kubera (the god of wealth); the saying implies that even if one has access to unlimited riches, their bad luck will prevent them from gaining anything.

This proverb means that one's righteous deeds and moral conduct will act as a shield and save them from danger or misfortune in critical times. It is used to encourage ethical behavior, suggesting that being good eventually leads to being protected by one's own karma.

This proverb suggests that the cleanliness, organization, and atmosphere of a home reflect the personality, management skills, and discipline of the woman of the house. It is used to imply that surroundings often reveal the true nature of the person responsible for them.

This proverb is the Telugu equivalent of 'Man proposes, God disposes'. It is used when human plans or expectations fail due to unforeseen circumstances or fate, highlighting that humans do not have ultimate control over the outcomes of their actions.