Kandadai

Kandadai Andan (Swami Mudali Andan) was a shishya of the philosopher Ramanuja. His followers are also known as Iyengars. Swami Mudaliandan did not have children for long time. Once, while discussing with Sri Ramanuja, Andaan regretted about not having a child. At the same, Sri Ramanuja received prasadam from the Temple which was covered with a garment (Kandadai- Gandam + aadai – a piece of cloth with fragrance) worn on Lord’s thirumeni (Lord’s archaamurthy). Sri Ramanuja indicated to Andaan about the auspicious happening and told him he will get a son soon. Soon, a son was born to Andaan. Thus, Andaan vamsam (family) was called Kandadayar family. It is said that a whole street in SrIvilli-puttur bears the name 'kandaDaiyArvIthi', to signify the importance of the family.