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'''Iyer''' is the name given to a community of [[Brahmin]]s (members of the priestly class / [[caste]]) of [[India]] whose members profess the [[advaita]] philosophy propounded by sri [[Shankaracharya]] and whose ancestors have had strong ties with the Tamil region,for many centuries.Iyers are therefore those whose ancestors came from [[tamil language|Tamil]]-speaking areas. They are a subgroup of [[smartha|Smartha Brahmins]]. Though Iyer is used as a suffix to names, it does not strictly constitute a family name, but rather denotes the sect of the person.
'''Iyer''' is the name given to a community of [[Brahmin]]s (members of the priestly class / [[caste]]) of [[India]] whose members profess the [[advaita]] philosophy propounded by sri [[Shankaracharya]] and whose ancestors have had strong ties with the Tamil region,for many centuries.Iyers are therefore those whose ancestors came from [[tamil language|Tamil]]-speaking areas.They are a subgroup of [[smartha|Smartha Brahmins]]. Though Iyer is used as a suffix to names, it does not strictly constitute a family name, but rather denotes the sect of the person. They are also known as Thayir Saadham, Sambhar or simply as paaparan.


The term Iyer derives from the term ''Ayya'', an honorific in the Tamil language. ''Ayya'' in turn is possibly derived from the word ''Arya'' as in [[Aryan|Aryans]]. A prevalent notion is that the Tamil Brahmin is of Aryan origin as opposed to the original inhabitants of South India who are [[Dravidian race|Dravidian]] in origin, since the priestly caste was largely confined to those of Aryan origin. The theory gains credence from various socio-cultural factors as well, including the heavily Sanskrit-influenced Tamil spoken by this community. However, the topic is a controversial and sensitive (and highly politicized) one that relates to the formation of castes and the [[Aryan invasion theory]]. It also needs to be mentioned that Ancient Tamils do not preserve the memory of any foreign culture being superimposed upon their own, neither do they record any new race subduing them. Hence, any assimilation of outsiders was likely a peaceful and gradual process in this region.
The term Iyer derives from the term ''Ayya'', an honorific in the [[Tamil]] language. ''Ayya'' in turn is possibly derived from the word ''Arya'' as in [[Aryan|Aryans]]. A prevalent notion is that the Tamil Brahmin is of Aryan origin as opposed to the original inhabitants of South India who are [[Dravidian]] in origin. This makes them believe that they are superior by race and color[[Neo-Nazism]]. They believe that they are the white people in a predominantly black Tamil nadu. This is not a confirmed or proven historical fact as such, and is a controversial and sensitive topic that relates to the formation of castes and the [[Aryan invasion theory]]. This theory is not accepted by most Iyers, who do not believe that Dravidians are any separate race.It also needs to be mentioned that Ancient Tamils do not preserve the memory of any foreign culture being superimposed upon their own, neither do they record any new race subduing them.


Through the ages, Iyers have enjoyed extremely cordial relationship with other Tamils. In the recent past, however, there has been a considerable amount of resentment against them, much of it instigated by politicians associating themselves with a "Dravidian movement."
Through the ages, Iyers have enjoyed extremely cordial relationship with other Tamils[[Sarcasm]]. They have always believed in equal treatment of all human beings[[Sarcasm]]. Each section of the Tamil society has learnt something from the other. Only in recent times, some section of Tamil society has been brainwashed into hating the Iyers.


==Spiritual and philosophical beliefs==
==Spiritual and philosophical beliefs==
Strictly speaking, all Iyers define themselves as "Srauta-Smarta", ie. followers of the Sruti (veda), and Smriti texts. For atleast a millenia, a vast majority of Iyers have followed Sri [[Adi Sankara]]'s [[advaita]] philosophy, a branch of [[Hinduism]] that believes that the human soul is liberated from the cycle of rebirths through the acquisition of knowledge of its true nature (See external links). Important in the advaitic philosophy is the tenet that [[Brahman]], the Supreme Being is <i>nirguna</i>, or devoid of attributes. However, humans postulate attributes to [[God]] to facilitate worship, thus create various deities. As followers of this philosophy, Iyers are indiscriminate in their worship of the ENTIRE pantheon of Hindu deities: [[Shiva]], [[Vishnu]], [[Rama]], [[Krishna]], [[Ganesha]], [[Karttikeya]], as well as [[Ayyappa]]. However, in as much as Advaita is one expression of the Uttara-Mimamsa school of philosophy, it is noteworthy that other schools (including [[agnosticism|agnostic]] and [[atheism|atheistic]] ones), such as [[Nyaya]], [[Vaisesika]], [[Samkhya]], [[Yoga]], and [[Purva-Mimamsa]] have, over the centuries, found prominent adherents among the Iyers.
Strictly speaking, all Iyers define themselves as "Srauta-Smarta", ie. followers of the Sruti (veda), and Smriti texts. For atleast a millenia, a vast majority of Iyers have followed Sri [[Adi Sankara]]'s [[advaita]] philosophy, a branch of [[Hinduism]] that believes that the human soul is liberated from the cycle of rebirths through the acquisition of knowledge of its true nature (See external links). Important in the advaitic philosophy is the tenet that [[Brahman]], the Supreme Being is <i>nirguna</i>, or devoid of attributes. However, humans postulate attributes to [[God]] to facilitate worship, thus create various deities. As followers of this philosophy, Iyers are indiscriminate in their worship of the ENTIRE pantheon of Hindu deities: [[Shiva]], [[Vishnu]], [[Rama]], [[Krishna]], [[Ganesha]], [[Karttikeya]], as well as [[Ayyappa]]. However, in as much as Advaita is one expression of the Uttara-Mimamsa school of philosophy, it is noteworthy that other schools (including agnostic and atheistic ones), such as [[Nyaya]],[[Vaisesika]], [[Samkhya]], [[Yoga]], and [[Purva-Mimamsa]] have, over the centuries, found prominent adherents among the Iyers.


A vast number of Iyers continue to take deep interest in religion, even in the modern age. Many of them have evolved to higher spiritual planes. The Orthodox Iyer believes in the teachings of Adi Shankracharya. They therefore mostly follow the teaching of Gurus who come from that tradition. Two of the popular maths that Iyers follow are:
A vast number of Iyers continue to take deep interest in religion, even in the modern age. Many of them have evolved to higher spiritual planes. The Orthodox Iyer believes in the teachings of Adi Shankracharya. They therefore mostly follow the teaching of Gurus who come from that tradition. Two of the popular maths that Iyers follow are:


1. [[Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham]] - This is the mutt established in the holy city of Kanchipuram. The Shankaracharyas of this mutt are highly revered by the Iyers. The divine leader [[Kanchi Mahaswamigal|Paramacharya]], gave new life to this mutt. Its supporters, most of whom are Iyers, are spread across the globe. It is doing a lot of social service. The traditional followers of this mutt are located in [[Tamil Nadu]], [[Andhra]], [[Karnataka]], and [[Kerala]].
1. [[Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham]] - This is the mutt established in the holy city of Kanchipuram. This place is now at the centre of controversy in the recent past for the murder of a temple trustee. There are rumours that the Junior Acharya had illicit relationship with cine actress Swarnamalaya(another Iyer). The Shankaracharyas of this mutt are highly revered by the Iyers. The followers of the mutt believe that Adi Shankracharya was born sometime around 500 BC. This date is not recognized by the modern day historian,but the mutt has a list which goes back to that date. The Kanchi Mutt,however is of very recent origin dating just over a century. The origin of the Kanchi Mutt is disputed by the other Sankara Mutts. The 4 other Sankara Mutts which the Adi Sankara supposedly founded do not recognise the Kanchi Mutt. The divine leader [[Paramacharya]], gave new life to this mutt. It's supporters, invariably Tamil brahmins, are spread everywhere across the Globe. It is doing a lot of service to the Vedic and brahmin community. The traditional followers of this mutt are located in [[Tamil Nadu]], [[Andhra]], [[Karnataka]] and [[Kerala]].


2.[[Sringeri Sharada Peetham]] - This mutt is also believed to have been started by Adi Shankaracharya. Sringeri mutt is located in [[Sringeri]], Karnataka. The followers of this mutt believe that Shankaracharya lived in 800 CE. Its first head was [[Sureswaracharya]]. The mutt also includes an impressive line of pontiffs, the most famous of whom was Shri [[Vidyaranya]], who was an adviser to [[Vijayanagar]] kings (the rulers of the dead city of [[Hampi]]). The mutt has traditional following in [[Karnataka]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[Andhra]], [[Kerala]], [[Maharashtra]] and [[Orissa]].
2.[[Sringeri Sharada Peetham]] - This mutt is also believed to have been started by Adi Shankaracharya. Sringeri mutt is located in [[Sringeri]], Karnataka. The followers of this mutt believe that Shankaracharya lived in 800 AD. Its first head was [[Sureswaracharya]]. The mutt also includes an impressive line of pontiffs, the most famous of whom was Shri [[Vidyaranya]], who was an adviser to [[Vijayanagar]] kings (the rulers of the dead city of [[Hampi]]). The mutt has traditional following in [[Karnataka]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[Andhra]], [[Kerala]], [[Maharashtra]] and [[Orissa]].


Besides these mutts the Iyers also follow the teachings of the [[Siddhas]] and [[Nayanmars]]. They also revere the [[alwars]], such as [[godhai]] ([[andal]]). [[Siddhas]] and [[Nayanmars]] have religious ideas different from, but closely linked to, Advaita. There used to be Iyers who only worshipped [[Shiva]] or [[Vishnu]], in spite of believing in Advaita.
Besides these mutts the Iyers also follow the teachings of the [[Siddhas]] and [[Nayanmars]]. They also revere the [[alwars]], such as [[godhai]] ([[andal]]). [[Siddhas]] and [[Nayanmars]] have religious ideas different from, but closely linked to, Advaita.There used to be Iyers who only worshipped [[Shiva]] or [[Vishnu]],inspite of believing in advaita.


==Rituals,Ceremonies and Festivals==
==Rituals,Ceremonies and Festivals==
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Although many rituals that were practiced in ancient times are no longer followed, some traditions are continued to this day. Rituals are extremely important to Iyers because rituals define their caste identity.
Although many rituals that were practiced in ancient times are no longer followed, some traditions are continued to this day. Rituals are extremely important to Iyers because rituals define their caste identity.


Iyers are initiated into rituals at the time of Birth itself. In ancient times Iyers performed rituals when the baby was being separated from mother's umbilical cord. <!-- need name of practice: This practice was known as... --> However, this practice is not followed in modern times. At the time of birth, a [[horoscope]] is made for the child based on the position of the stars. Then Iyers undergo the naming ceremony. This affair is important as the name given during this ceremony would be the individual's religious name, and would be used when ever prayers or ceremonies were conducted, where that individual had to be mentioned. Besides this, some families conduct ''[[homas]]'' every birthday of the individual, to invoke god's blessings. In other families prayers are performed every year on the individual's birthday. This birthday does not have to do with the child's birthdate, but it corresponds to the ''nakshatra'', or star, corresponding to the time at which the individual is born. The child's first birthday is most important, when both Iyer boys and girls have their ears pierced. From that day onwards a girl is expected to wear earrings. It was expected of even boys to wear earrings all his life. This is no longer followed today by most Iyers. The ceremony is therefore only a formality for the boys.
Iyers are initiated into rituals at the time of Birth itself. In ancient times Iyers performed rituals when the baby was being separated from mother's umbilical cord. <!-- need name of practice: This practice was known as... --> However, this practice is not followed in modern times. At the time of birth, a [[horoscope]] is made for the child based on the position of the stars. Then Iyers undergo the naming ceremony. This affair is important as the name given during this ceremony would be the individual's religious name, and would be used when ever prayers or ceremonies were conducted, where that individual had to be mentioned. Besides this, some families conduct ''[[homas]]'' every birthday of the individual, to invoke god's blessings. In other families prayers are performed every year on the individual's birthday. This birthday does not have to do with the child's birthdate, but it corresponds to the ''nakshatra'', or star, corresponding to the time at which the individual is born. The child's first birthday is most important, when both Iyer boys and girls have their ears pierced. From that day onwards a girl is expected to wear earrings. It was expected of even boys to wear earrings all his life. This is no longer followed today by most Iyers.The ceremony is therefore only a formality,for the boys.


When a male child reaches his seventh birthday he is eligible for thread ceremony also known as [[Upanayanam]]. From that day on, he becomes an official member of his caste, and is called as a "twice born". In ancient times, the boy was sent to ''[[gurukula]]'' to learn ''vedas'' and scriptures. He then practiced extreme discipline during the period known as ''[[brahmacharya]]''. He lived a celibate life, living on alms, and surviving on ''[[satvic]]'' and austere practices. The individual had to perform daily fire worship, and perform prayers without fail. Though such practices are not followed in modern times by a majority of Iyers, ever Iyer boy/man undergoes the [[thread ceremony]] before marriage. But very few go to ''gurukula'' or learn ''vedas'' or scriptures even at home. They do not follow the strict disciplines either. However even today, many Iyers continue to follow the daily worship of Sun and the Goddess ''[[gayatri]]''.This daliy worship is also known as ''[[sandhyavandanam]]''. This worship is necessary to be performed at dawn, mid-day, and dusk. The mid-day worship is called ''[[madhyanam]]''. Besides this, all twice-born Iyers need to perform annual ceremonies such as ''[[Upakarma]]'', when they replace their sacred threads with new ones. They also recite 1008 ''gayatri japas'' on a certain day every year. This is one practice very few twice born Iyers leave out.
When a male child reaches his seventh birthday he is eligible for thread ceremony also known as [[Upanayanam]]. From that day on, he becomes an official member of his caste, and is called as a "twice born". In ancient times, the boy was sent to ''[[gurukula]]'' to learn ''vedas'' and scriptures. He then practiced extreme discipline during the period known as ''[[brahmacharya]]''. He lived a celibate life, living on alms, and surviving on ''[[satvic]]'' and austere practices. The individual had to perform daily fire worship, and perform prayers without fail. Though such practices are not followed in modern times by a majority of Iyers, ever Iyer boy/man undergoes the [[thread ceremony]] before marriage. But very few go to ''gurukula'' or learn ''vedas'' or scriptures even at home. They do not follow the strict disciplines either. However even today, many Iyers continue to follow the daily worship of Sun and the Goddess ''[[gayatri]]''.This daliy worship is also known as ''[[sandhyavandanam]]''. This worship is necessary to be performed at dawn, mid-day, and dusk. The mid-day worship is called ''[[madhyanam]]''. Besides this, all twice-born Iyers need to perform annual ceremonies such as ''[[Upakarma]]'', when they replace their sacred threads with new ones. They also recite 1008 ''gayatri japas'' on a certain day every year. This is one practice very few twice born Iyers leave out.


Iyer women have their own ceremonies such as the one at the time of attaining puberty (mostly a private family affair). They do not undergo the sacred thread ceremony or any form of initiation into ''vedas'' or scriptures. However, they learn ''[[shlokas]]'' and devotional hymns, and regularly worship God. It is believed that as the husband already having undergone the thread ceremony, the wife need not do so as well. Thus, an unmarried woman is considered as uninitiated into the vedic order.
Iyer women have their own ceremonies such as the one at the time of attaining puberty (mostly a private family affair). They do not undergo the sacred thread ceremony or any form of initiation into ''vedas'' or scriptures. However, they learn ''[[shlokas]]'' and devotional hymns, and regularly worship God. It is believed that as the husband already having undergone the thread ceremony, the wife need not do so as well. Thus, an unmarried woman is considered as uninitiated into the vedic order.




Then there are rituals that need to be followed at the time of an individual's marriage. <!--More details needed here-->
Then there are rituals that need to be followed at the time of an individual's marriage. <!--More details needed here-->


The other extremely important rituals for the Iyers are the death ceremonies. All Iyers are cremated according to vedic rites, usually within a day of the individual's death. The death rites include a 13-day ceremony, and regular ''[[tarpanam]]'' for the ancestors. There is also a yearly ''[[shraddha]]'', that needs to be performed. These rituals are expected to be performed only by male descendants of the deceased.
The other extremely important rituals for the Iyers are the death ceremonies. All Iyers are cremated according to vedic rites, usually within a day of the individual's death. The death rites include a 13-day ceremony, and regular ''[[tarpanam]]'', for the ancestors. There is also a yearly ''[[shraddha]]'', that needs to be performed. These rituals are expected to be performed only by male descendants of the deceased.


There are other rituals for different occasions like ''[[Grihapravesam]]'' (entering a new house), perfoming ''[[yagnas]]'' for the welfare of world, etc.
There are other rituals for different occasions like ''[[Grihapravesam]]'' (entering a new house), perfoming ''[[yagnas]]'' for the welfare of world, etc.


In traditional families any food is first offered to God as ''[[naivedhya]]'', and then eaten. Food is not considered pure until then. Even in other Iyer/Hindu families ''naivedhya'' is done during festivals.
In traditional families any food is first offered to God as [[naivedhya]],and then eaten.Food is not considered pure until then.Even in other Iyer/hindu families naivedhya is done during festivals.


Iyers celebrate different festivals, in each of which they worship God. They offer different kinds of sweets to God unique to that festival. These offerings ususally include fruits. Worship of Gods is done by reciting [[Sanskrit]] hymns and special flowers are offered to God. Some of the many festivals celebrated by Iyers are:
Iyers celebrate different festivals, when they worship God. They offer different kinds of sweets to God unique to that festival. These offerings ususally include fruits. Worship of Gods is done by reciting [[Sanskrit]] hymns and special flowers are offered to God. Some of the many festivals celebrated by Iyers are:


[[Deepavali]] - the festival of lights, commemorating the victory of [[Lord Krishna]] over the demon [[Narakasura]]. The Iyers celebrate this in their unique style by waking up early in the morning and having and oil bath. The ''Deepavali'' medicine is a herbal sweet, that is believed to increase an individual's appetite for sweets. This sweet is prepared unfailingly every year. People light their houses with lamps, and burst firecrackers on this day.
[[Deepavali]] - the festival of lights, commemorating the victory of [[Lord Krishna]] over the demon [[Narakasura]]. The Iyers celebrate this in their unique style by waking up early in the morning and having and oil bath. The ''Deepavali'' medicine is a herbal sweet, that is believed to increase an individual's appetite for sweets. This sweet is prepared unfailingly every year.People light their houses with lamps,and burst fire crackers on this day.


[[Dasara]]/[[Navarathri]] - the nine-day festival of ''[[durga]]'' which culminates in a [[Saraswati]] Puja and then [[Vijayadasami]]. On Saraswati puja, Iyers keep the books they use, for puja. These books are removed and read on the Vijayadasami. Any other new work is also started on Vijayadasami. The sweet unique to Dasara is ''[[soondal]]''.
[[Dasara]]/[[Navarathri]] - the nine-day festival of ''[[durga]]'' which culminates in a [[Saraswati]] Puja and then [[Vijayadasami]]. On Saraswati puja, Iyers keep the books they use, for puja. These books are removed and read on the Vijayadasami. Any other new work is also started on Vijayadasami. The sweet unique to Dasara is ''[[soondal]]''.


[[Pongal]]/[[Makara Sankaranti]] - the yearly festival for the sun. The ''chakara pongal'' is a sweet made of rice for this occasion. Sugarcane is also offered to God on this day.
[[Pongal]]/[[Makara Sankaranti]] - the yearly festival for the sun. The ''chakara pongal'' is a sweet made of rice for this occasion. Sugercane is also offered to God on this day.


[[Vinayaka Chaturthi]] - Birthday of Lord Ganesha. ''Kozhakattai'' is a sweet prepared for this occasion, and is considered the favourite of Lord Ganesha.
[[Vinayaka Chaturthi]] - Birthday of Lord Ganesha. ''Kozhakattai'' is a sweet prepared for this occasion, and is considered the favourite of Lord Ganesha.
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[[Sivarathri]] - Worship day of Lord Shiva. The Lord Shiva is pleased with austerities, so no sweets are prepared. Instead, people are expected to fast the whole day, and worship Lord Shiva throughout the night. Fruits are permissible for those who cannot follow the intense devotion expected.
[[Sivarathri]] - Worship day of Lord Shiva. The Lord Shiva is pleased with austerities, so no sweets are prepared. Instead, people are expected to fast the whole day, and worship Lord Shiva throughout the night. Fruits are permissible for those who cannot follow the intense devotion expected.


[[Karthika deepam]] - Day celebrating the victory of Lord [[Muruga]] over evil. ''Pori'', a sweet dish, is prepared on this day. The house is also lit with lamps to celebrate the victory over darkness.
[[Karthika deepam]] - Day celebrating the victory of Lord [[Muruga]] over evil. ''Pori'', a sweet dish, is prepared on this day.The house is also lit with lamps to celebrate the victory over darkness.


[[Avani avittam]] - [[Upakarma]] day for the Iyers. On this day, Iyers change the sacred thread and recite vedas.
[[Avani avittam]] - [[Upakarma]] day for the Iyers. On this day, Iyers change the sacred thread and recite vedas.
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==Origins ==
==Origins ==


The Iyers claim a top position in the caste hierarchy of the Tamil-speaking country. The process of [[caste]] formation in [[India]] is one of surpassing complexity, and it is impossible to establish the original provanance of a community with any certitude. It may be noted in this connection that the Iyers are [[Smartha]] brahmins, and differ in from other [[Smartha]] [[brahmin]] communities mainly in having Tamil for their mother-tongue. In other words: Iyers are [[Smartha]] [[Brahmin]]s whose mother tongue is Tamil.The telugu,marathi and saurashtra brahmins settled in TamilNadu also call themselves as Iyers.Thus this is sufficient proof that Iyers are not a homogenous community at all,and is an indication of the way the Iyers have evolved. The Iyer community is however strongly rooted in the [[Tamil Nadu|Tamil country]], and it has consistently defined itself in terms of that Tamil identity atleast since the period, in the very remote past, when the caste-formation process by which it differentiated itself from other Brahmin communities, including its closest [[smartha]] co-religionists, was going on.
The Iyers claim a top position in the caste hierarchy of the [[Tamil]]-speaking country. The process of [[caste]] formation in [[India]] is one of surpassing complexity, and it is impossible to establish the original provanance of a community with any certitude. It may be noted in this '''incorrect''' that the Iyers are [[Smartha]] brahmins, and differ in from other [[Smartha]] [[brahmin]] communities mainly in having [[Tamil]] for their mother-tongue. In other words: Iyers are [[Smartha]] [[Brahmin]]s whose mother tongue is Tamil.The telugu,marathi and saurashtra brahmins settled in TamilNadu also call themselves as Iyers.Thus this is sufficient proof that Iyers are not a homogenous community at all,and is an indication of the way the Iyers have evolved. The Iyer community is however strongly rooted in the [[Tamil Nadu|Tamil country]], and it has consistently defined itself in terms of that [[Tamil]] identity atleast since the period, in the very remote past, when the caste-formation process by which it differentiated itself from other Brahmin communities, including its closest [[smartha]] co-religionists, was going on.


In contrast, there is a "migratory view", which is a view on the origin of ''all'' Brahmins, not only Iyers. According to this view, many members of the Brahmin community, originally based in Northern India, migrated to the rich kingdoms in the South, particularly that of the [[Cholas]] in the Tamil country, in the first millennium AD. This migration is presumed to have been in response to the invitations of the rulers who needed them to perform various rituals, especially ''[[yajna]]s'' or fire-sacrifices. In return for their services, the Brahmins were given agricultural land and other gifts. The Iyers later diversified into [[agriculture]] and other trades. There was thus a consolidation of both wealth and education in the Iyers. The Chola territory of [[Thanjavur]], a fertile land watered by the [[Cauvery River]], became their home. The theory is further used to explain the 'fair' skin of many Iyers,which make them look like 'North Indians'.
In contrast, there is a "migratory view", which is a view on the origin of ''all'' Brahmins, not only Iyers. According to this view, many members of the Brahmin community, originally based in Northern India, migrated to the rich kingdoms in the South, particularly that of the [[Cholas]] in the Tamil country, in the first millennium AD. This migration is presumed to have been in response to the invitations of the rulers who needed them to perform various rituals, especially ''[[yajna]]s'' or fire-sacrifices. In return for their services, the Brahmins were given agricultural land and other gifts. The Iyers later diversified into [[agriculture]] and other trades. There was thus a consolidation of both wealth and education in the Iyers. The Chola territory of [[Thanjavur]], a fertile land watered by the [[Cauvery River]], became their home.


Proponents of this view aver that a migration to the South is indicated by the legend of the sage [[Agastya]], which goes thus: once upon a time, the [[Vindhya mountain range]] that separates North and South India began growing higher and higher, in defiance of the established "world order". Desirous of halting this growth, Sage Agastya approached the mountain, conveyed his desire to travel to the south, and requested the mountain to facilitate his journey by not growing further until his return to the north. The ruse worked; the Vindhya bowed its head to Agastya and promised to comply with his request. Agastya travelled to the south, but never returned, and the Vindhyas, true to its word, never grew further. This [[pura]]nic legend affirms to the emigration of at least one Brahmin family, that of the sage Agastya, it also makes mention of various Brahmin ''[[rishi]]s'' already in residence in the South at the time of sage Agastya's migration.It also needs to be added that Ancient Tamil folklore actually credited Agastya for the Invention of Tamil.
Proponents of this view aver that a migration to the South is indicated by the legend of the sage [[Agastya]], which goes thus: once upon a time, the [[Vindhya mountain range]] that separates North and South India began growing higher and higher, in defiance of the established "world order". Desirous of halting this growth, Sage Agastya approached the mountain, conveyed his desire to travel to the south, and requested the mountain to facilitate his journey by not growing further until his return to the north. The ruse worked; the Vindhya bowed its head to Agastya and promised to comply with his request. Agastya travelled to the south, but never returned, and the Vindhyas, true to its word, never grew further. Lying, lack of trust and greed continue to be a brahmin trait, especially magnified in the behaviour of the Tamil brahmin. This [[pura]]nic legend affirms to the emigration of at least one Brahmin family, that of the sage Agastya, it also makes mention of various Brahmin ''[[rishi]]s'' already in residence in the South at the time of sage Agastya's migration.It also needs to be added that Ancient Tamil folklore actually credited Agastya for the Invention of Tamil.


Another legend is that the brahmins in general came out of Brahma's mouth.
Another legend is that the brahmins in general came out of Brahma's mouth - vomited out of his guts as he just couldn't digest the buggers!


While the deeper implications of such legends are debatable, it is certainly possible that many Brahmins emigrated to the South during various periods of political turmoil in northern India. All the Iyers trace their origin to one of eight major ''[[rishi]]s'' or sages. Iyers classify themselves under different [[Gotra]]s; those of the same Gotra share common ancestors. Marriage among people of the same Gotra is prohibited. Iyers are also divided into subgroups such as Vadama, Brahacharanam, etc., based on details such as emigration and association with certain areas - [[Palakkad]] Iyers are those who migrated to [[Kerala]] and are settled in the Palakkad district. The superiority/inferiority of the various ''gotras'' and subgroups with reference to each other and their stereotyping is the subject of many debates, often amusing to the current generation.Such periods of [[anarchy]] had always been common in the north; however, the period of [[Muslim]] rule may have been particularly onerous for north Indian Brahmins, and may have resulted in emigrations to the south. The names of certain Iyer sub-castes, such as ''[[Vadama]]'' ("Northerner"), may possibly indicate northern origin. While many historians would suggest that Iyers, or at least Vadama Iyers came to Tamil Nadu as late as the [[10th century]], this theory is suspect for the following reasons:
While the deeper implications of such legends are debatable, it is certainly possible that many Brahmins emigrated to the South during various periods of political turmoil in northern India. All the Iyers trace their origin to one of eight major ''[[rishi]]s'' or sages. Iyers classify themselves under different [[Gotra]]s; those of the same Gotra share common ancestors. Marriage among people of the same Gotra is prohibited. Iyers are also divided into subgroups such as Vadama, Brahacharanam, etc., based on details such as emigration and association with certain areas - [[Palakkad]] Iyers are those who migrated to [[Kerala]] and are settled in the Palakkad district. The superiority/inferiority of the various ''gotras'' and subgroups with reference to each other and their stereotyping is the subject of many debates, often amusing to the current generation.Such periods of [[anarchy]] had always been common in the north; however, the period of [[Muslim]] rule may have been particularly onerous for north Indian Brahmins, and may have resulted in emigrations to the south. The names of certain Iyer sub-castes, such as ''[[Vadama]]'' ("Northerner"), may possibly indicate northern origin. While many historians would suggest that Iyers, or at least Vadama Iyers came to Tamil Nadu as late as the [[10th century]], this theory is suspect for the following reasons:
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1. The Iyer [[DNA]] shows a lot of similarities with [[South East Asia]]ns.
1. The Iyer [[DNA]] shows a lot of similarities with [[South East Asia]]ns.


2. The Iyer culture is very much influenced and integrated with other Tamils.
2. The language of the Iyers is very much integrated with the Tamils (although their culture is not).


3. There is no actual evidence to show a long distance migration. Even the encouragement provided
3. There is no actual evidence to show a long distance migration. Even the encouragement provided
by the Chola kings probably indicates only a migration of Brahmins from [[Kanchipuram]] to [[Tanjore]]. This does not mean that there were previously no Brahmins in Tanjore, and may have to do with only a sect of people highly skilled in [[Sanskrit]] rituals.
by the Chola kings probably indicates only a migration of Brahmins from [[Kanchipuram]] to [[Tanjore]]. This does not mean that there were previously no Brahmins in Tanjore, and may have to do with only a sect of people highly skilled in [[Sanskrit]] rituals.


The name ''Vadama'' itself has probably to do with the fact that this subcaste was dominant in northern most Tamil Nadu. The fact was that many "northern brahmins"(reference may be to vadamas) were invited to "chola regions" which was located south of Kanchipuram(the capital of pallavas),in order to perform yagnas and other rituals,which required mastery over Sanskrit and Vedic Traditions.There is nothing surprising about this either, because all rituals in ancient Andhra located north is completely Sanskritized,even today(The exception being the temples managed by Sri Vaishnavas,where Tamil was introduced later). In short, there may well have been some knowledge of Sanskrit within interior Tamil regions, but there were probably fewer experts there than elswhere. It may also have been very much possible that Vedic practices in South India was influenced by local traditions.Today,there is so much integration in many aspects, that no Indian community can claim itself to be uninfluenced by another.
The name ''Vadama'' itself has probably to do with the fact that this subcaste was dominant in northern most Tamil Nadu. The fact was that many "northern brahmins"(reference may be to vadamas) were invited to "chola regions" which was located south of Kanchipuram(the capital of pallavas),in order to perform yagnas and other rituals,which required mastery over Sanskrit and Vedic Traditions.There is nothing surprising about this either, because all rituals in ancient Andhra located north is completely Sanskritized,even today(The exception being the temples managed by Sri Vaishnavas,where tamil was introduced later). In short, there may well have been some knowledge of Sanskrit within interior Tamil regions, but there were probably fewer experts there than elswhere. Sanskrit, vedic and hindu culture itself originated from the more ancient and definitely more advanced Dravidian civilisation.


Here are some similarities between Iyer and Tamil beliefs and culture:
Here are some similarities between Iyer and Tamil beliefs and culture:
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During the mediaeval ages and later, Iyers (and Brahmins in general) rose in prominence in society, primarily due to their emphasis on education, particularly in terms of their expertise in the [[Vedas]] and the attendant complex rituals. This was further strengthened by the [[Raj|British rule]] in India when they served colonist as petty clerks. Later, on the eve of Independence, they switched sides and to gain from the freedom movement. Such a situation led to resentment from the other castes in Tamilnadu, particularly the educated and elite. An upshot of this atmosphere was an anti-Brahmin movement and the formation of the [[Justice party]]. Though formed on a principled high-ground, the movement soon led to a power struggle between the [[Brahmin]]s and the other dominant castes like the [[Mudaliar]]s, [[Pillai]]s and [[Chettiar]]s, which was aggravated with the introduction of the reservation system ([[affirmative action]]s for the under-privileged castes.) Some time after independence, in the 1960's, the [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam]] (roughly translated as "Organisation for Progress of Dravidians") and its subgroups gained political ground on this platform forming state ministries, thereby wrenching control from the Congress party, where Iyers at that time had managed to grab important party positions.
During the mediaeval ages and later, Iyers (and Brahmins in general) rose in prominence in society, primarily due to their emphasis on education, particularly in terms of their expertise in the [[Vedas]] and the attendant complex rituals. This was further strengthened by the [[Raj|British rule]] in India when they served colonist as petty clerks. Later, on the eve of Independence, they switched sides and to gain from the freedom movement. Such a situation led to resentment from the other castes in Tamilnadu, particularly the educated and elite. An upshot of this atmosphere was an anti-Brahmin movement and the formation of the [[Justice party]]. Though formed on a principled high-ground, the movement soon led to a power struggle between the [[Brahmin]]s and the other dominant castes like the [[Mudaliar]]s, [[Pillai]]s and [[Chettiar]]s, which was aggravated with the introduction of the reservation system ([[affirmative action]]s for the under-privileged castes.) Some time after independence, in the 1960's, the [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam]] (roughly translated as "Organisation for Progress of Dravidians") and its subgroups gained political ground on this platform forming state ministries, thereby wrenching control from the Congress party, where Iyers at that time had managed to grab important party positions. However, with the progressive empowerment of the suppressed castes, and changing socio-economic conditions. Tamils do not see them as part of their Tamil Community. This is noticeable in the big social divide among Iyers and the Tamil community.

==Iyer Women==
==Iyer Women==


If one were to believe that the intelligence of women in a community was linked to the intellectual freedom that its women enjoyed, then Iyers have not done badly compared to other Indian women. Iyer women are noted for their independent and intelligent ways. Proud of their culture they are uncompromising in their stand. If the Iyers have been able to retain many aspects of their culture,and if they are indeed among the most disciplined and intellectual brahmins,the credit must indeed go to Iyer women. Iyer women have played a major role in [[Carnatic music]] and the dance form also called [[Bharatanatyam]].
If one were to believe that the intelligence of women in a community was linked to the intellectual freedom that its women enjoyed,then Iyers have not done badly compared to other Indian women. Iyer women are noted for their independant and opportunistic ways.
Shameless about their culture they are compromising in their behaviour. If the Iyers have been able to make headway in their professions,the credit must indeed go to Iyer women. Over the last couple of decades, ever since Iyer women started playing a major role in [[Carnatic music]] and the dance form also called [[Bharatanatyam]], these hardly generate popular response.


The Iyer woman is often portrayed as fair skinned woman draped in a [[nine yard saree]], also known as [[madisar]]. Though such dress is worn regularly only by the older women, on festivals and other religious occasions it is worn by young women as well. Iyer women usually do not forget to wear [[kumkum]]/[[sindoor]]/[[bindi]] on their forehead and married women always wear the [[mangalsutra]] also called as "thali" in Tamil. This mangalsutra is a sacred necklace tied by the bridegroom around the bride's neck during marriage,while the priest chants vedic hymns.
Although confined to the humble brahmin hutments,the Iyer woman is often portrayed as fair skinned women draped in a [[nine yard saree]], also known as [[madisar]]. Though such dress is worn regularly only by the older women, on festivals and other religious occasions it is worn by young women as well. From medieval times, Iyer women have had a propensity to make a career as nautch girls and in the present days and film vamps. Iyer women use their sexuality to their maximum. Iyer women have adopted the Tamil culture of applying [[kumkum]]/[[sindoor]]/[[bindi]] on their forehead and married women always wear the [[mangalsutra]] also called as "thali" in Tamil. This mangalsutra is a sacred necklace tied by the bridegroom around the bride's neck during marriage,while the priest chants vedic hymns.


Iyer women have had much harder times as well. According to Vedic scriptures an Iyer woman becomes part of her husband's family after marriage. She adopts the gotra/rishi as well as the traditions of her husband's family.Unlike Iyer men, Iyer women do not undergo education in Vedas or even the Sacred Thread ceremony called [[upanayanam]]. This was not all, in ancient times it was considered dishonourable for an Iyer woman to seek any kind of Job or work under anyone,even if her circumstances required her to earn.
Iyer women have had much harder times as well. According to Vedic scriptures an Iyer woman becomes part of her husband's family after marriage. She adopts the gotra/rishi as well as the traditions of her husband's family.Unlike Iyer men, Iyer women do not undergo education in Vedas or even the Sacred Thread ceremony called [[upanayanam]]. This was not all, in ancient times it was considered dishonourable for an Iyer woman to seek any kind of Job or work under anyone,even if her circumstances required her to earn.
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The Iyer woman of those times could never complete her education, as she was pushed into marriage early in her life. So she had to be completely dependent on her husband's earnings, and when her husband died she was forced to depend on highly selfish and inconsiderate relatives. The situation was worse when the widow did not have a son. However with the ban of child marriages,such problems became less common. Now widow remarriages are also looked upon with sympathy by the community, even if there might be still a few who disagree with widow remarriage. Iyer women are highly educated in the present times,and are completely independant. Divorces are not unknown either.
The Iyer woman of those times could never complete her education, as she was pushed into marriage early in her life. So she had to be completely dependent on her husband's earnings, and when her husband died she was forced to depend on highly selfish and inconsiderate relatives. The situation was worse when the widow did not have a son. However with the ban of child marriages,such problems became less common. Now widow remarriages are also looked upon with sympathy by the community, even if there might be still a few who disagree with widow remarriage. Iyer women are highly educated in the present times,and are completely independant. Divorces are not unknown either.


An interesting and completely unheard of affair was a recent traditional marriage between two Iyer Lesbians living in [[United States of America]].
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==Communities closely associated with Iyers==


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==Communities closely assosciated with Iyers==
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Though Iyers have a unique culture that distinguishes them from other Tamils, they are closely linked with other Tamil Communities.


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Though Iyers have a unique culture ,that distinguishes them from other Tamils,they are closely linked with other Tamil Communities.
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Ramanujacharya, was a great Sri Vaishanava teacher.In his lifetime, all brahmins who lived in Tamil Nadu were known as Iyers. Thus he was, in that sense, an Iyer, but more importantly he was born in a Smartha Family. His radical thinking was not acceptable to a majority of Iyers. In this manner, the Iyer community itself split in two: Iyer and [[Iyengar]]. The Iyengars the followed their own path, and were quite often in argument with Iyers, over philosophical and religious questions. They tried to implement some reforms recommended by Ramanujacharya. For instance they followed Ramanujacharya's advice and stopped visiting Shiva Temples. It is also believed that some Iyengars assimilated non-brahmins into their sect. This sect probably came to be known as [[Tenkalai]]. The rest of the Iyengars, came to be known as [[vadakalai]].


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Ramanujacharya,was a great Sri Vaishanava teacher.In his lifetime,all brahmins who lived in Tamil Nadu were known as Iyers.Thus he himself in that sense was an Iyer,but more importantly he was born in a Smartha Family.His radical thinking ,was not acceptable to a majority of Iyers.In this manner the Iyer community itself split into two - Iyer and [[Iyengar]].The Iyengars the followed their own path,and were quite often in argument with Iyers,over philosophical and religious questions.They tried to implement some reforms recommended by Ramanujacharya.For intstance they followed Ramanujacharya's advice and stopped visiting Shiva Temples.It is also believed that some Iyengars,assimilated non brahmins into their sect.This sect probably came to be known as [[Tenkalai]].The rest of the Iyengars,came to be known as [[vadakalai]].
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The other community that deserves a mention are the [[Devadasis]]. Devadasis were women who gave up family life and served the Temples. They used to perform dances for the Lord. In the ancient times almost every Shiva temple had Devadasis. In course of time this practice became hereditary and also degenerated. The Devadasis are responsible for preserving the ancient dance form [[Bharatanatyam]]. Though this community was looked down upon as [[prostitute]]s in [[British India]], the Devadasis were very much proud of their heritage, and did not believe that they were in any way similar to prostitutes. The relationship they enjoyed with the priests was something they cherished. They taught dance and music to Brahmins, who in turn taught them Sanskrit and sacred mythology. They felt part of the society, yet felt sacred because they could devote maximum time to worship of God. The famous Carnatic vocalist [[M.S. Subbulakshmi]] was born to a devadasi mother and an Iyer father. The Devadasi system has been banned as prostitution in modern India, despite protests by devadasis. Because of the ban, some Devadasis ended up as prostitutes, as there was no other source of livelihood.


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The other community that deserves a mention are the [[Devadasis]].Devadasis were women who gave up family life and served the Temples.They used to perform dances for the Lord.In the ancient times almost every Shiva temple had Devadasis.In course of time this practice became hereditory and also degenerated. With the brahmin and the Devadasis working in the temple, the occassional brahmin may have shared close sexual/love relationship. However, this is unlikely as brahmins are not trustees of temples in Tamilnadu. They are merely maintenance agents. The mother of a [[Devadasi]] was born to an Iyer,the father was an Iyer.Yet the Iyer society did not consider them as Iyers.However some Devadasis have said that they had good friendship with even the wives of the Brahmin priests,with whom they enjoyed sexual relationship.The Devadasis are responsible for preserving the ancient dance form [[Bharatanatyam]].Though this community was looked down upon as prostitutes in [[British India]],the Devadasis were very much proud of their heritage,and did not believe that they were in any way similar to prostitutes.The relationship they enjoyed with the priests was something they cherished.They taught Dance and Music to Brahmins,who in turn taught them Sanskrit and sacred mythology.They felt part of the society,by satisfying their lust,yet felt sacred because they could devote maximum time to worship of God.The famous Carnatic vocalist [[M.S. Subbulakshmi]] was born to a [[devadasi]] mother and an Iyer father.The Devadasi system has been banned as prostitution in Modern India,despite protests by devadasis.Because of the ban,some Devadasis ended up as prostitutes,as there was no other source of Livelihood. Today, the brahmin women continue the tradition of devadasis by acting as nautch girls,film stars,entertainers,etc.
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Many Kerala Iyers practiced [[Sambandham]] relationship with [[Nair]] women.


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Many Kerala Iyers also enjoyed [[Sambandham]] relationship with [[Nair]] women.


==Traditional Iyer Ethics==
==Traditional Iyer Ethics==


Iyers were extremely orthodox a century ago. They believed in law books such as [[manusmriti]].
Iyers were extremely orthodox a century ago.They believed in law books such as [[manusmriti]].
Besides this there were other books written by sages like [[apastamba]] and [[bodhyayana]].
Besides this there were other books written by sages like [[apastamba]] and [[bodhyayana]].
The Iyers however clearly defined themselves on many issues because or even inspite of the law books.
The Iyers however clearly defined themselves on many issues because or even inspite of the law books.


# A traditional Iyer is not expected to eat [[rajasic]] and [[tamasic]] food. If the food was touched by a shudra, or if it was derived from meat, or from unclean plants such as onion, garlic and mushroom. It was avoided. Though modern day Iyers have no problem eating satvic food cooked even by shudras, the old people continue to avoid even this. It must however be added that for the young generation, only "non vegetarian" foods are taboo. Milk or milk products are considered acceptable. Majority of Iyers are still vegetarian and avoid even mushroom. Onions and Garlic are sometimes acceptable to many Iyers. In ancient times Iyers even avoided chillis, as they were considered rajasic. It needs to be added that this kind of non violence was not applied to clothing or other items, that was not eaten. It is clear that in the modern times atleast Iyers, wear and use leather goods. The ancient Iyers had use for deer skin and tiger skin, though it is debatable whether they used the leather of animals that were delibrately killed for this purpose. Some Iyers even performed animal sacrifices a few centuries ago. It must be clearly mentioned that as believers in manu smriti, Animal sacrifices were not considered wrong by Ancient Iyers. It should also be mentioned that manu smriti does not recommend consumption of animals when they were not sacrificed in yagnas. The amount of meat an Individual consumed during animal sacrifice was probably very, very less, by any standards. This practice was almost completey given up by Iyers, after Adi Shankaracharya carried major reforms in Brahmin societies, more than a millenia ago. Elaborate purification ceremonies were recommended in ancient times, for those who ate meat and other unclean food.
1.A traditional Iyer is not expected to eat [[rajasic]] and [[tamasic]] food.[[racist]]If the food was touched by a shudra,or if it was derived from meat,or from unclean plants such as onion,garlic and mushroom.It was avoided.Though modern day Iyers have no problem eating satvic food cooked even by shudras[[Racist]],the old people continue to avoid even this.It must however be added that for the young generation, only "non vegetarian" foods are taboo. They now eat chicken and other meat products in such a way that they will put a carnivore to shame. Milk or milk products are considered acceptable. All alcohols are now accepted by brahmins as pure as milk. Majority of Iyers are still vegetarian and avoid even mushroom.Onions and Garlic are sometimes acceptable to many Iyers.In ancient times Iyers even avoided chillis ,as they were considered rajasic.It needs to be added that this kind of non violence was not applied to clothing or other items,that was not eaten.It is clear that in the modern times atleast Iyers,wear and use leather goods.The ancient Iyers had use for Deer Skin and Tiger Skin,though it is debatable whether they used the leather of animals that were delibrately killed for this purpose.Some Iyers even performed animal sacrifices a few centuries ago.It must be clearly mentioned that as believers in manu smriti,Animal sacrifices were not considered wrong by Ancient Iyers.It should also be mentioned that manu smriti does not recommend consumption of animals when they were not sacrificed in yagnas.The amount of meat an Individual consumed during animal sacrifice was probably very ,very less,by any standards.This practice was almost completey given up by Iyers,after Adi Shankaracharya carried major reforms in brahmin societies,more than a millenia ago.Elaborate purification ceremonies were recommended in ancient times, for those who ate meat and other unclean food.

# Most Iyers believe that every religion has good to teach the world. They believe in non violence, and very few murderers or unlawfull men exist in this community.
2.Most Iyers believe that every religion has good to teach the world.They believe in non violence,and very few murderers or unlawfull men exist in this community.
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# They consider smoking and drinking as taboo. Very few Iyer women have either of these habits, and a large percentage of men do not smoke or drink. However these habits have started being tolerated in modern times.

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# Iyers consider marriage a religious act and duty. Thus extra marital and pre marital affairs are considered highly unacceptable and sacrilegious, though they did occur. Most Iyers remain undivorced to the end of their lives. Widowers marry often, though widows do not usually marry. Iyers usually marry within their caste. People who marry outside of the brahmin caste are not liked and somehow fall out of the mainstream Iyer society.
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3.They consider smoking and drinking as taboo.Very few Iyer women have either of these habits,and a large percentage of men do not smoke or drink.However these habits have started being tolerated in modern times.
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# Iyers believe in the caste system, much of the critiscism of Iyers usually occurs because of their insensitive nature and not because they believe in slavery of any kind. In any case this attitude also occurs because many Iyers do not closely interact with other castes and are confined to within their group.

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# Iyers like to believe themselves to be honest. Many of them are extremely hardworking and sincere, whatever may be their vocation, although corrupt Iyers are not unknown. The one feature that is common among many Iyers, is their desire to lead simple and austere lives no matter how much they earn.
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4.Iyers consider marriage a religious act and duty.Thus extra marital and pre marital affairs are considered highly unacceptable and sacrilegious ,though they did occur.Most Iyers remain undivorced to the end of their lives.Widowers marry often,though widows do not usually marry.Iyers usually marry within their caste.People who marry outside of the brahmin caste are not liked and somehow fall out of the mainstream Iyer society.
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# Iyers like many other Hindus, revere cows and worship them.

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5.Iyers believe in the caste system,much of the critiscism of Iyers usually occurs because of their insensitive nature and not because they believe in slavery of any kind.In any case this attitude also occurs because many Iyers do not closely interact with other castes and are confined to within their group.

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6.Iyers like to believe themselves to be honest.Many of them are extremely hardworking and sincere ,whatever may be their vocation,although corrupt Iyers are not unknown.The one feature that is common among many Iyers,is their desire to lead simple and austere lives no matter how much they earn.

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7.Iyers like many other hindus,revere cows and worship them.

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It needs to be added that none of these statements can be fully applied to the young Iyers,who live more with people outside their community.Nonvegetarianism,alcoholism,atheism,vulgar lifestyles have become common.On the other hand there are more Intercaste marriages,and there is better interaction with lower castes.The modern day Iyers follow the ethics of the vocation they practice.For instance an Iyer scientist who needs to experiment on animals would do so,even if he were a Strict vegetarian.Iyers,from extremely orthodox families,might not hesitate to eat meat or drink alcohol,when working in the armed forces,even if the individual believes in his/her traditions.

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Many modern Iyers would never reveal themselves as Iyers,unless it was necessary and are much more integrated with society than their forefathers.


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It needs to be added that none of these statements can be fully applied to the young Iyers, who live more with people outside their community. Nonvegetarianism, alcoholism, atheism, vulgar lifestyles have become common. On the other hand there are more Intercaste marriages, and there is better interaction with lower castes. The modern day Iyers follow the ethics of the vocation they practice. For instance an Iyer scientist who needs to experiment on animals would do so, even if he were a Strict vegetarian. Some Iyers, might not hesitate to eat meat or drink alcohol, when working in the armed forces, even if the individual believes in his/her traditions.


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Many modern Iyers would never reveal themselves as Iyers, unless it was necessary and are much more integrated with society than their forefathers.


==Iyers today==
==Iyers today==
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* [[Ramana Maharishi]] was a sage who meditated in the forests of [[Arunachala]].
* [[Ramana Maharishi]] was a sage who meditated in the forests of [[Arunachala]].
* [[Sheshadri Swamigal]] was a great [[Siddha]] who lived in the forests of [[Arunachala]].
* [[Sheshadri Swamigal]] was a great [[Siddha]] who lived in the forests of [[Arunachala]].
* [[Swami Sivananda]] was a great [[yoga|yogi]] who lived in [[Rishikesh]],in the foothills of [[Himalayas]].
* [[Swami Sivananda]] was a great [[yogi]] who lived in [[Rishikesh]],in the foothills of [[Himalayas]].
* [[Sri Sri Ravishankar]] is the founder of the Art of Living.
* [[Sri Sri Ravishankar]] is the founder of the Art of Living.
* [[Bharati Krishna Theerthaji]] was the Shankracharya of [[Puri]].He also brought [[Vedic mathematics]] to the modern world.
* [[Bharati Krishna Theerthaji]] was the Shankracharya of [[Puri]].He also brought [[Vedic mathematics]] to the modern world.
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* [[R.S. Krishnan]] Scientist Emeritus, Ex-Head of Physics. Dept. IISc, Ex-Vice Chancellor of Trivandrum University, a favorite protégé of Sir C.V.Raman & also has an effect to his name - Krishnan Effect
* [[R.S. Krishnan]] Scientist Emeritus, Ex-Head of Physics. Dept. IISc, Ex-Vice Chancellor of Trivandrum University, a favorite protégé of Sir C.V.Raman & also has an effect to his name - Krishnan Effect
* [[Vilayanur Ramachandran]] Neuro Scientist,University of San Diego
* [[Vilayanur Ramachandran]] Neuro Scientist,University of San Diego
* [[M S Swaminathan]] (b. 1925) has been called the father of the Green Revolution in Indian agriculture in the 1960s. As a result of his efforts, India became a net exporter of food by the mid 1970s. Swaminathan however has been Director General, International Rice Research Institute (Manila), and has received the Magsaysay Award (1971).
* [[M S Swaminathan]] (b. 1925) was (not) the father of the Green Revolution in Indian agriculture in the 1960s. C.Subramaniam, a Gounder stateman was. As a result of his efforts, India became a net exporter of food by the mid 1970s. Swaminathan however has been Director General, International Rice Research Institute (Manila), and has received the Magsaysay Award (1971).
* [[S.R. Ranganathan]] Important figure in Library Science
* [[S.R. Ranganathan]] (Father of Library Science!?)
* [[Raghavan Narasimhan Iyer]] Indian-born political philosopher and Hindu scholar.
* [[Raghavan Narasimhan Iyer]] Indian-born political philosopher and Hindu scholar.(who the hell is this fella?
* [[P.S.Lokanathan]] World Renowned Economist
* [[P.S.Lokanathan]] World Renowned Economist(never heard of him.
* [[Rajagopala Chidambaram]] Former Director of BARC.
* [[Rajagopala Chidambaram]] Former Director of BARC.
* [[K.Kasturangan]] Former ISRO Chairman
* [[K.Kasturangan]] Former ISRO Chairman
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* [["Kalki" B. Krishnamurthy ]] Journalist and Novelist par excellence.
* [["Kalki" B. Krishnamurthy ]] Journalist and Novelist par excellence.
* [[V.V.S Iyer]] Tamil Scholar and Freedom Fighter.
* [[V.V.S Iyer]] Tamil Scholar and Freedom Fighter.
* [[V S Srinivasa Sastri]] - Rt. Honourable Srinivasa Sastri was a freedom fighter, great orator and teacher
* [[V S Srinivasa Sastri]] - Rt Honourable Srinivasa Sastri was a freedom fighter,great orator and teacher
* [[Pico Iyer]] (noted author)
* [[Pico Iyer]] (noted author)
* [[R.K. Narayan]] (Indian author of great fame)
* [[R.K. Narayan]] (Indian author of great fame)
* [[R.K. Laxman]] (Indian cartoonist and humorist)
* [[R.K. Laxman]] (Indian cartoonist and humorist)
* [[Cho Ramaswamy]] Political analyst, editor of ''Tughlaq'', and film actor.
* [[Cho Ramaswamy]] Political analysist ,Editor of Tughlaq,and Film actor and blundering buffoon.


'''Advocates and Social Activists'''
'''Advocates and Social Activists'''


* [[V.R. Krishna Iyer]] (Judicial expert and Justice, Supreme Court of India)
* [[V.R. Krishna Iyer]] (Judicial expert and Justice, Supreme Court of India)
* [[Sir Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar]] One of the Founding fathers of Indian Constitution.
* [[Sir Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar]] One of the Founding fathers of Indian Constitution who no one seems to have heard of.




'''Patriots and Freedom Fighters'''
'''Patriots and Freedom Fighters'''(Just three of them?)


* [[Satyamurthy]] Indian freedom fighter
* [[Satyamurthy]] Indian freedom fighter
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* [[Vishwanathan Anand]] ([[Chess]] [[International Grandmaster|grandmaster]])
* [[Vishwanathan Anand]] ([[Chess]] [[International Grandmaster|grandmaster]])
* [[Nirupama Vaidyanathan]] First Indian women to play a round in Grand Slam.
* [[Nirupama Vaidyanathan]] First Indian women to play a round (and not more) in Grand Slam.
* [[Professor K.V.Iyer]] World famous body Builder
* [[Professor K.V.Iyer]] World famous body Builder (on a vegetarian diet?)


'''Performers in Modern music and arts of the new age'''
'''Performers in Modern music and arts of the new age'''
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'''Distinguished people in the Entertaintment Industry'''
'''Distinguished people in the Entertaintment Industry'''


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* [[Padma Lakshmi]] Famous nude model who married to [[Salman Rushdie]]

* [[Mani Rathnam]] Famous Movie Director.
* [[Mani Rathnam]] Famous Movie Director.
* [[K. Balachander]] Famous cinema director.
* [[K. Balachander]] Famous cinema director.
* [[G.V.Iyer]] Internationally renowned Director-Producer of Sanskrit movies like 'Adi Shankaracharya','Ramanujacharya','Bhagawat Gita'.
* [[G.V.Iyer]] Internationally renowned Director-Producer of Sanskrit movies like 'Adi Shankaracharya','Ramanujacharya','Bhagawat Gita'.
* [[Gemini Ganesan]] Famous Tamil Star and father of Hindi actress [[Rekha]].
* [[Gemini Ganesan]] Famous Tamil Star and father of Hindi actress [[Rekha]].
* [[Shivakumar]] Acclaimed Tamil Star and father of Film Star Surya.
* [[Shivakumar]] Acclaimed Tamil Star and father of Film Star Surya (you may have got it wrong here buddy).
* [[Soundarya]] Famous Telugu actress (late)
* [[Soundarya]] Famous Telugu actress (late)
* [[Arvind Swamy ]] Actor cum entrepreneur.
* [[Arvind Swamy ]] Actor cum entrepreneur.
* [[Shankar Mahadevan]] Well known film singer and Music Director
* [[Shankar Mahadevan]] Well known film singer and Music Director



'''Performers of Classical arts'''
'''Performers of Classical arts'''
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'''Other famous people'''
'''Other famous people'''
* [[Sir C. P. Ramaswami Iyer]] the devan of Travancore.
* [[Sir C.P.Ramswamy Iyer]] the devan of Travancore.
* [[Subramanium Swamy]], politician.
* [[Subramanium Swamy]], Famous politician and Harvard Graduate.
* [[Mani Shankar Aiyar]], Politican and Central Minister
* [[Mani Shankar Aiyar]], Politican and Central Minister
* [[Lakshmi Sehgal]], a Presidential Canditate and former head of [[INA]] women command.
* [[Lakshmi Sehgal]], a Presidential Canditate and former head of [[INA]] women command.
* [[Mrinalini Sarabhai]], Bharatanatyam Dancer and Wife of renowned scientist [[Vikram Sarabhai]]
* [[Mrinalini Sarabhai]], Bharatanatyam Dancer and Wife of renowned scientist Vikram Sarabhai
⚫
* [[Padma Lakshmi]], model, foodie and wife of author [[Salman Rushdie]]


==External links==
==External links==
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[[Category:Caste]]
[[Category:Caste]]
[[Category:Brahmin Communities]]
[[Category:Brahmin Communities]]
[[Category:Indian surnames]]


[[sv:Iyer]]
[[sv:Iyer]]

Revision as of 22:51, 27 September 2005

Iyer
Classification: Ethnic group/ Caste/Community of South India
Total population: 2004: (approx) 2,000,000 (roughly 3% of Tamils)
Significant populations in: Chennai: XXXX
Mayavaram:XXXX
Tirunelveli district: XXXX
Thiruvananthapuram: XXXX
Palghat: XXXX
London: XXXX - Also known as 'Thames Iyers'
Language Mother tongue is Tamil with unique Iyer accent. Knowledge in Sanskrit for religious/traditional reasons.
Religion Advaita Hinduism
Related ethnic groups

Brahmin

  • Iyer
    • Vadama
      • Sabhayar
      • Inji
      • Thummagunta Dravida
      • Choladesha
      • Vadadesha
    • Brhatcharanam
      • Kandramanicka
      • Malanadu
      • Nilaganur
      • Mangudi
      • Palamaneri
      • Musanadu
      • Kolaththur
      • Maruthancheri
      • Satyamangalam
      • Puroor Dravida
    • Ashtasahasram
      • Aththiyoor
      • Arivarpade
      • Nandivadi
      • Shatkulam
    • Hiranyakesigal
    • Dikshitar/Thila Muayiravar
    • Sholiyar
      • Thirukkatiyoor
      • Madalur
      • Visalur
      • Puthalur
      • Senganur
      • Avadayar Kovil
    • Mukkani
    • Kaniyalar
    • Sanketis
      • Kaushikas
      • Bettadapuras
      • Mattur Sanketis
      • Tamil Sanketis
    • Prathamashakhis
    • Gurukkal
      • Tiruvalangad
      • Kanchipuram
      • Thirukkazhukundram
    • Vathima/Madhimas
      • Pathinettu Gramaththu
      • Udayalur
      • Nannilam
      • Rathamangalam



Iyer is the name given to a community of Brahmins (members of the priestly class / caste) of India whose members profess the advaita philosophy propounded by sri Shankaracharya and whose ancestors have had strong ties with the Tamil region,for many centuries.Iyers are therefore those whose ancestors came from Tamil-speaking areas.They are a subgroup of Smartha Brahmins. Though Iyer is used as a suffix to names, it does not strictly constitute a family name, but rather denotes the sect of the person. They are also known as Thayir Saadham, Sambhar or simply as paaparan.

The term Iyer derives from the term Ayya, an honorific in the Tamil language. Ayya in turn is possibly derived from the word Arya as in Aryans. A prevalent notion is that the Tamil Brahmin is of Aryan origin as opposed to the original inhabitants of South India who are Dravidian in origin. This makes them believe that they are superior by race and colorNeo-Nazism. They believe that they are the white people in a predominantly black Tamil nadu. This is not a confirmed or proven historical fact as such, and is a controversial and sensitive topic that relates to the formation of castes and the Aryan invasion theory. This theory is not accepted by most Iyers, who do not believe that Dravidians are any separate race.It also needs to be mentioned that Ancient Tamils do not preserve the memory of any foreign culture being superimposed upon their own, neither do they record any new race subduing them.

Through the ages, Iyers have enjoyed extremely cordial relationship with other TamilsSarcasm. They have always believed in equal treatment of all human beingsSarcasm. Each section of the Tamil society has learnt something from the other. Only in recent times, some section of Tamil society has been brainwashed into hating the Iyers.

Spiritual and philosophical beliefs

Strictly speaking, all Iyers define themselves as "Srauta-Smarta", ie. followers of the Sruti (veda), and Smriti texts. For atleast a millenia, a vast majority of Iyers have followed Sri Adi Sankara's advaita philosophy, a branch of Hinduism that believes that the human soul is liberated from the cycle of rebirths through the acquisition of knowledge of its true nature (See external links). Important in the advaitic philosophy is the tenet that Brahman, the Supreme Being is nirguna, or devoid of attributes. However, humans postulate attributes to God to facilitate worship, thus create various deities. As followers of this philosophy, Iyers are indiscriminate in their worship of the ENTIRE pantheon of Hindu deities: Shiva, Vishnu, Rama, Krishna, Ganesha, Karttikeya, as well as Ayyappa. However, in as much as Advaita is one expression of the Uttara-Mimamsa school of philosophy, it is noteworthy that other schools (including agnostic and atheistic ones), such as Nyaya,Vaisesika, Samkhya, Yoga, and Purva-Mimamsa have, over the centuries, found prominent adherents among the Iyers.

A vast number of Iyers continue to take deep interest in religion, even in the modern age. Many of them have evolved to higher spiritual planes. The Orthodox Iyer believes in the teachings of Adi Shankracharya. They therefore mostly follow the teaching of Gurus who come from that tradition. Two of the popular maths that Iyers follow are:

1. Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham - This is the mutt established in the holy city of Kanchipuram. This place is now at the centre of controversy in the recent past for the murder of a temple trustee. There are rumours that the Junior Acharya had illicit relationship with cine actress Swarnamalaya(another Iyer). The Shankaracharyas of this mutt are highly revered by the Iyers. The followers of the mutt believe that Adi Shankracharya was born sometime around 500 BC. This date is not recognized by the modern day historian,but the mutt has a list which goes back to that date. The Kanchi Mutt,however is of very recent origin dating just over a century. The origin of the Kanchi Mutt is disputed by the other Sankara Mutts. The 4 other Sankara Mutts which the Adi Sankara supposedly founded do not recognise the Kanchi Mutt. The divine leader Paramacharya, gave new life to this mutt. It's supporters, invariably Tamil brahmins, are spread everywhere across the Globe. It is doing a lot of service to the Vedic and brahmin community. The traditional followers of this mutt are located in Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Karnataka and Kerala.

2.Sringeri Sharada Peetham - This mutt is also believed to have been started by Adi Shankaracharya. Sringeri mutt is located in Sringeri, Karnataka. The followers of this mutt believe that Shankaracharya lived in 800 AD. Its first head was Sureswaracharya. The mutt also includes an impressive line of pontiffs, the most famous of whom was Shri Vidyaranya, who was an adviser to Vijayanagar kings (the rulers of the dead city of Hampi). The mutt has traditional following in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Kerala, Maharashtra and Orissa.

Besides these mutts the Iyers also follow the teachings of the Siddhas and Nayanmars. They also revere the alwars, such as godhai (andal). Siddhas and Nayanmars have religious ideas different from, but closely linked to, Advaita.There used to be Iyers who only worshipped Shiva or Vishnu,inspite of believing in advaita.

Rituals,Ceremonies and Festivals

Although many rituals that were practiced in ancient times are no longer followed, some traditions are continued to this day. Rituals are extremely important to Iyers because rituals define their caste identity.

Iyers are initiated into rituals at the time of Birth itself. In ancient times Iyers performed rituals when the baby was being separated from mother's umbilical cord. However, this practice is not followed in modern times. At the time of birth, a horoscope is made for the child based on the position of the stars. Then Iyers undergo the naming ceremony. This affair is important as the name given during this ceremony would be the individual's religious name, and would be used when ever prayers or ceremonies were conducted, where that individual had to be mentioned. Besides this, some families conduct homas every birthday of the individual, to invoke god's blessings. In other families prayers are performed every year on the individual's birthday. This birthday does not have to do with the child's birthdate, but it corresponds to the nakshatra, or star, corresponding to the time at which the individual is born. The child's first birthday is most important, when both Iyer boys and girls have their ears pierced. From that day onwards a girl is expected to wear earrings. It was expected of even boys to wear earrings all his life. This is no longer followed today by most Iyers.The ceremony is therefore only a formality,for the boys.

When a male child reaches his seventh birthday he is eligible for thread ceremony also known as Upanayanam. From that day on, he becomes an official member of his caste, and is called as a "twice born". In ancient times, the boy was sent to gurukula to learn vedas and scriptures. He then practiced extreme discipline during the period known as brahmacharya. He lived a celibate life, living on alms, and surviving on satvic and austere practices. The individual had to perform daily fire worship, and perform prayers without fail. Though such practices are not followed in modern times by a majority of Iyers, ever Iyer boy/man undergoes the thread ceremony before marriage. But very few go to gurukula or learn vedas or scriptures even at home. They do not follow the strict disciplines either. However even today, many Iyers continue to follow the daily worship of Sun and the Goddess gayatri.This daliy worship is also known as sandhyavandanam. This worship is necessary to be performed at dawn, mid-day, and dusk. The mid-day worship is called madhyanam. Besides this, all twice-born Iyers need to perform annual ceremonies such as Upakarma, when they replace their sacred threads with new ones. They also recite 1008 gayatri japas on a certain day every year. This is one practice very few twice born Iyers leave out.

Iyer women have their own ceremonies such as the one at the time of attaining puberty (mostly a private family affair). They do not undergo the sacred thread ceremony or any form of initiation into vedas or scriptures. However, they learn shlokas and devotional hymns, and regularly worship God. It is believed that as the husband already having undergone the thread ceremony, the wife need not do so as well. Thus, an unmarried woman is considered as uninitiated into the vedic order.


Then there are rituals that need to be followed at the time of an individual's marriage.

The other extremely important rituals for the Iyers are the death ceremonies. All Iyers are cremated according to vedic rites, usually within a day of the individual's death. The death rites include a 13-day ceremony, and regular tarpanam, for the ancestors. There is also a yearly shraddha, that needs to be performed. These rituals are expected to be performed only by male descendants of the deceased.

There are other rituals for different occasions like Grihapravesam (entering a new house), perfoming yagnas for the welfare of world, etc.

In traditional families any food is first offered to God as naivedhya,and then eaten.Food is not considered pure until then.Even in other Iyer/hindu families naivedhya is done during festivals.

Iyers celebrate different festivals, when they worship God. They offer different kinds of sweets to God unique to that festival. These offerings ususally include fruits. Worship of Gods is done by reciting Sanskrit hymns and special flowers are offered to God. Some of the many festivals celebrated by Iyers are:

Deepavali - the festival of lights, commemorating the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. The Iyers celebrate this in their unique style by waking up early in the morning and having and oil bath. The Deepavali medicine is a herbal sweet, that is believed to increase an individual's appetite for sweets. This sweet is prepared unfailingly every year.People light their houses with lamps,and burst fire crackers on this day.

Dasara/Navarathri - the nine-day festival of durga which culminates in a Saraswati Puja and then Vijayadasami. On Saraswati puja, Iyers keep the books they use, for puja. These books are removed and read on the Vijayadasami. Any other new work is also started on Vijayadasami. The sweet unique to Dasara is soondal.

Pongal/Makara Sankaranti - the yearly festival for the sun. The chakara pongal is a sweet made of rice for this occasion. Sugercane is also offered to God on this day.

Vinayaka Chaturthi - Birthday of Lord Ganesha. Kozhakattai is a sweet prepared for this occasion, and is considered the favourite of Lord Ganesha.

Janmashtami - Birthday of Lord Krishna. Cheedais are special food items prepared for this festival.

Tamil New Year- New Year according to the Tamil calendar. A neem paste is the main dish for this day.

Sivarathri - Worship day of Lord Shiva. The Lord Shiva is pleased with austerities, so no sweets are prepared. Instead, people are expected to fast the whole day, and worship Lord Shiva throughout the night. Fruits are permissible for those who cannot follow the intense devotion expected.

Karthika deepam - Day celebrating the victory of Lord Muruga over evil. Pori, a sweet dish, is prepared on this day.The house is also lit with lamps to celebrate the victory over darkness.

Avani avittam - Upakarma day for the Iyers. On this day, Iyers change the sacred thread and recite vedas.

Iyers keep certain days for fasting. Some of the days Iyers fast are, Amavasya, Ekadasi, and Sivarathri.

Origins

The Iyers claim a top position in the caste hierarchy of the Tamil-speaking country. The process of caste formation in India is one of surpassing complexity, and it is impossible to establish the original provanance of a community with any certitude. It may be noted in this incorrect that the Iyers are Smartha brahmins, and differ in from other Smartha brahmin communities mainly in having Tamil for their mother-tongue. In other words: Iyers are Smartha Brahmins whose mother tongue is Tamil.The telugu,marathi and saurashtra brahmins settled in TamilNadu also call themselves as Iyers.Thus this is sufficient proof that Iyers are not a homogenous community at all,and is an indication of the way the Iyers have evolved. The Iyer community is however strongly rooted in the Tamil country, and it has consistently defined itself in terms of that Tamil identity atleast since the period, in the very remote past, when the caste-formation process by which it differentiated itself from other Brahmin communities, including its closest smartha co-religionists, was going on.

In contrast, there is a "migratory view", which is a view on the origin of all Brahmins, not only Iyers. According to this view, many members of the Brahmin community, originally based in Northern India, migrated to the rich kingdoms in the South, particularly that of the Cholas in the Tamil country, in the first millennium AD. This migration is presumed to have been in response to the invitations of the rulers who needed them to perform various rituals, especially yajnas or fire-sacrifices. In return for their services, the Brahmins were given agricultural land and other gifts. The Iyers later diversified into agriculture and other trades. There was thus a consolidation of both wealth and education in the Iyers. The Chola territory of Thanjavur, a fertile land watered by the Cauvery River, became their home.

Proponents of this view aver that a migration to the South is indicated by the legend of the sage Agastya, which goes thus: once upon a time, the Vindhya mountain range that separates North and South India began growing higher and higher, in defiance of the established "world order". Desirous of halting this growth, Sage Agastya approached the mountain, conveyed his desire to travel to the south, and requested the mountain to facilitate his journey by not growing further until his return to the north. The ruse worked; the Vindhya bowed its head to Agastya and promised to comply with his request. Agastya travelled to the south, but never returned, and the Vindhyas, true to its word, never grew further. Lying, lack of trust and greed continue to be a brahmin trait, especially magnified in the behaviour of the Tamil brahmin. This puranic legend affirms to the emigration of at least one Brahmin family, that of the sage Agastya, it also makes mention of various Brahmin rishis already in residence in the South at the time of sage Agastya's migration.It also needs to be added that Ancient Tamil folklore actually credited Agastya for the Invention of Tamil.

Another legend is that the brahmins in general came out of Brahma's mouth - vomited out of his guts as he just couldn't digest the buggers!

While the deeper implications of such legends are debatable, it is certainly possible that many Brahmins emigrated to the South during various periods of political turmoil in northern India. All the Iyers trace their origin to one of eight major rishis or sages. Iyers classify themselves under different Gotras; those of the same Gotra share common ancestors. Marriage among people of the same Gotra is prohibited. Iyers are also divided into subgroups such as Vadama, Brahacharanam, etc., based on details such as emigration and association with certain areas - Palakkad Iyers are those who migrated to Kerala and are settled in the Palakkad district. The superiority/inferiority of the various gotras and subgroups with reference to each other and their stereotyping is the subject of many debates, often amusing to the current generation.Such periods of anarchy had always been common in the north; however, the period of Muslim rule may have been particularly onerous for north Indian Brahmins, and may have resulted in emigrations to the south. The names of certain Iyer sub-castes, such as Vadama ("Northerner"), may possibly indicate northern origin. While many historians would suggest that Iyers, or at least Vadama Iyers came to Tamil Nadu as late as the 10th century, this theory is suspect for the following reasons:

1. The Iyer DNA shows a lot of similarities with South East Asians.

2. The language of the Iyers is very much integrated with the Tamils (although their culture is not).

3. There is no actual evidence to show a long distance migration. Even the encouragement provided by the Chola kings probably indicates only a migration of Brahmins from Kanchipuram to Tanjore. This does not mean that there were previously no Brahmins in Tanjore, and may have to do with only a sect of people highly skilled in Sanskrit rituals.

The name Vadama itself has probably to do with the fact that this subcaste was dominant in northern most Tamil Nadu. The fact was that many "northern brahmins"(reference may be to vadamas) were invited to "chola regions" which was located south of Kanchipuram(the capital of pallavas),in order to perform yagnas and other rituals,which required mastery over Sanskrit and Vedic Traditions.There is nothing surprising about this either, because all rituals in ancient Andhra located north is completely Sanskritized,even today(The exception being the temples managed by Sri Vaishnavas,where tamil was introduced later). In short, there may well have been some knowledge of Sanskrit within interior Tamil regions, but there were probably fewer experts there than elswhere. Sanskrit, vedic and hindu culture itself originated from the more ancient and definitely more advanced Dravidian civilisation.

Here are some similarities between Iyer and Tamil beliefs and culture:

a) All Iyers worship Lord Muruga as a married man, which is contrary to the belief in a region like Andhra.

b) Iyers speak Tamil (although it is interspersed with Sanskrit words). They don't preserve any memory of any other language; it would have been most unlikely that this would have happened if they had migrated as late as the 8th—10th century AD.

c) Iyers revere the Alwars and Nayanmars, especially surprising in cases where some aspects of the teachings of these sects were heretical.

d) Iyers are allowed marry cross cousins, and uncles are allowed to marry nieces, both typical among south Indians, but was even condemned by Apastamba. Apastamba critiscizes even other south Indian Brahmins on these grounds. As Apastamba probably existed before the 6th century BCE, it is clear that there were Iyers by the 6th century BCE, and it is also possible that the highly Sanskritized Iyers (who worship Narmada) might have come about that time to the Tamil regions.

e) All Iyer bridegrooms tie the thali (mangalasutra) in the same manner. Such unity could never have happened in a short span of time.

f)Iyers celebrate pongal and also follow only the Tamil calendar.

i)Iyers have reverence for the Sangam classics, and have played a role in preserving these works.

Iyers today are found all over the world.

Social and political issues

During the mediaeval ages and later, Iyers (and Brahmins in general) rose in prominence in society, primarily due to their emphasis on education, particularly in terms of their expertise in the Vedas and the attendant complex rituals. This was further strengthened by the British rule in India when they served colonist as petty clerks. Later, on the eve of Independence, they switched sides and to gain from the freedom movement. Such a situation led to resentment from the other castes in Tamilnadu, particularly the educated and elite. An upshot of this atmosphere was an anti-Brahmin movement and the formation of the Justice party. Though formed on a principled high-ground, the movement soon led to a power struggle between the Brahmins and the other dominant castes like the Mudaliars, Pillais and Chettiars, which was aggravated with the introduction of the reservation system (affirmative actions for the under-privileged castes.) Some time after independence, in the 1960's, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (roughly translated as "Organisation for Progress of Dravidians") and its subgroups gained political ground on this platform forming state ministries, thereby wrenching control from the Congress party, where Iyers at that time had managed to grab important party positions. However, with the progressive empowerment of the suppressed castes, and changing socio-economic conditions. Tamils do not see them as part of their Tamil Community. This is noticeable in the big social divide among Iyers and the Tamil community.

Iyer Women

If one were to believe that the intelligence of women in a community was linked to the intellectual freedom that its women enjoyed,then Iyers have not done badly compared to other Indian women. Iyer women are noted for their independant and opportunistic ways. Shameless about their culture they are compromising in their behaviour. If the Iyers have been able to make headway in their professions,the credit must indeed go to Iyer women. Over the last couple of decades, ever since Iyer women started playing a major role in Carnatic music and the dance form also called Bharatanatyam, these hardly generate popular response.

Although confined to the humble brahmin hutments,the Iyer woman is often portrayed as fair skinned women draped in a nine yard saree, also known as madisar. Though such dress is worn regularly only by the older women, on festivals and other religious occasions it is worn by young women as well. From medieval times, Iyer women have had a propensity to make a career as nautch girls and in the present days and film vamps. Iyer women use their sexuality to their maximum. Iyer women have adopted the Tamil culture of applying kumkum/sindoor/bindi on their forehead and married women always wear the mangalsutra also called as "thali" in Tamil. This mangalsutra is a sacred necklace tied by the bridegroom around the bride's neck during marriage,while the priest chants vedic hymns.

Iyer women have had much harder times as well. According to Vedic scriptures an Iyer woman becomes part of her husband's family after marriage. She adopts the gotra/rishi as well as the traditions of her husband's family.Unlike Iyer men, Iyer women do not undergo education in Vedas or even the Sacred Thread ceremony called upanayanam. This was not all, in ancient times it was considered dishonourable for an Iyer woman to seek any kind of Job or work under anyone,even if her circumstances required her to earn.

Until recently, an Iyer widow was never allowed to remarry, while it was acceptable for Iyer widowers to remarry. The positive side was that the number of Iyer men who have sexual affairs outside of marriage is relatively small. If widow remarriage was banned divorces were considered as a "great evil". Even as late as the 1960s child marriages took place within the Iyer community. Many a times, the bridegroom used to die soon after marriage, leaving his young widow (who may not have even reached puberty) as a widow. Once a widow, an Iyer woman had to shave her head, wear ochre robes and lead the life of Sanyasi. There was a lot of problems with the lifestyle recommended for an Iyer widow. She had to stop wearing the kumkum/bindi on her forehead, and was recommended to smear her forehead with sacred ashes. She was considered unlucky and even barred from entering the house through the front door. She was not even allowed into temples or invited to marriages and other auspicious occasions.

The Iyer woman of those times could never complete her education, as she was pushed into marriage early in her life. So she had to be completely dependent on her husband's earnings, and when her husband died she was forced to depend on highly selfish and inconsiderate relatives. The situation was worse when the widow did not have a son. However with the ban of child marriages,such problems became less common. Now widow remarriages are also looked upon with sympathy by the community, even if there might be still a few who disagree with widow remarriage. Iyer women are highly educated in the present times,and are completely independant. Divorces are not unknown either.

An interesting and completely unheard of affair was a recent traditional marriage between two Iyer Lesbians living in United States of America.

Communities closely assosciated with Iyers

Though Iyers have a unique culture ,that distinguishes them from other Tamils,they are closely linked with other Tamil Communities.

Ramanujacharya,was a great Sri Vaishanava teacher.In his lifetime,all brahmins who lived in Tamil Nadu were known as Iyers.Thus he himself in that sense was an Iyer,but more importantly he was born in a Smartha Family.His radical thinking ,was not acceptable to a majority of Iyers.In this manner the Iyer community itself split into two - Iyer and Iyengar.The Iyengars the followed their own path,and were quite often in argument with Iyers,over philosophical and religious questions.They tried to implement some reforms recommended by Ramanujacharya.For intstance they followed Ramanujacharya's advice and stopped visiting Shiva Temples.It is also believed that some Iyengars,assimilated non brahmins into their sect.This sect probably came to be known as Tenkalai.The rest of the Iyengars,came to be known as vadakalai.

The other community that deserves a mention are the Devadasis.Devadasis were women who gave up family life and served the Temples.They used to perform dances for the Lord.In the ancient times almost every Shiva temple had Devadasis.In course of time this practice became hereditory and also degenerated. With the brahmin and the Devadasis working in the temple, the occassional brahmin may have shared close sexual/love relationship. However, this is unlikely as brahmins are not trustees of temples in Tamilnadu. They are merely maintenance agents. The mother of a Devadasi was born to an Iyer,the father was an Iyer.Yet the Iyer society did not consider them as Iyers.However some Devadasis have said that they had good friendship with even the wives of the Brahmin priests,with whom they enjoyed sexual relationship.The Devadasis are responsible for preserving the ancient dance form Bharatanatyam.Though this community was looked down upon as prostitutes in British India,the Devadasis were very much proud of their heritage,and did not believe that they were in any way similar to prostitutes.The relationship they enjoyed with the priests was something they cherished.They taught Dance and Music to Brahmins,who in turn taught them Sanskrit and sacred mythology.They felt part of the society,by satisfying their lust,yet felt sacred because they could devote maximum time to worship of God.The famous Carnatic vocalist M.S. Subbulakshmi was born to a devadasi mother and an Iyer father.The Devadasi system has been banned as prostitution in Modern India,despite protests by devadasis.Because of the ban,some Devadasis ended up as prostitutes,as there was no other source of Livelihood. Today, the brahmin women continue the tradition of devadasis by acting as nautch girls,film stars,entertainers,etc.


Many Kerala Iyers also enjoyed Sambandham relationship with Nair women.

Traditional Iyer Ethics

Iyers were extremely orthodox a century ago.They believed in law books such as manusmriti. Besides this there were other books written by sages like apastamba and bodhyayana. The Iyers however clearly defined themselves on many issues because or even inspite of the law books.

1.A traditional Iyer is not expected to eat rajasic and tamasic food.racistIf the food was touched by a shudra,or if it was derived from meat,or from unclean plants such as onion,garlic and mushroom.It was avoided.Though modern day Iyers have no problem eating satvic food cooked even by shudrasRacist,the old people continue to avoid even this.It must however be added that for the young generation, only "non vegetarian" foods are taboo. They now eat chicken and other meat products in such a way that they will put a carnivore to shame. Milk or milk products are considered acceptable. All alcohols are now accepted by brahmins as pure as milk. Majority of Iyers are still vegetarian and avoid even mushroom.Onions and Garlic are sometimes acceptable to many Iyers.In ancient times Iyers even avoided chillis ,as they were considered rajasic.It needs to be added that this kind of non violence was not applied to clothing or other items,that was not eaten.It is clear that in the modern times atleast Iyers,wear and use leather goods.The ancient Iyers had use for Deer Skin and Tiger Skin,though it is debatable whether they used the leather of animals that were delibrately killed for this purpose.Some Iyers even performed animal sacrifices a few centuries ago.It must be clearly mentioned that as believers in manu smriti,Animal sacrifices were not considered wrong by Ancient Iyers.It should also be mentioned that manu smriti does not recommend consumption of animals when they were not sacrificed in yagnas.The amount of meat an Individual consumed during animal sacrifice was probably very ,very less,by any standards.This practice was almost completey given up by Iyers,after Adi Shankaracharya carried major reforms in brahmin societies,more than a millenia ago.Elaborate purification ceremonies were recommended in ancient times, for those who ate meat and other unclean food.

2.Most Iyers believe that every religion has good to teach the world.They believe in non violence,and very few murderers or unlawfull men exist in this community.

3.They consider smoking and drinking as taboo.Very few Iyer women have either of these habits,and a large percentage of men do not smoke or drink.However these habits have started being tolerated in modern times.

4.Iyers consider marriage a religious act and duty.Thus extra marital and pre marital affairs are considered highly unacceptable and sacrilegious ,though they did occur.Most Iyers remain undivorced to the end of their lives.Widowers marry often,though widows do not usually marry.Iyers usually marry within their caste.People who marry outside of the brahmin caste are not liked and somehow fall out of the mainstream Iyer society.

5.Iyers believe in the caste system,much of the critiscism of Iyers usually occurs because of their insensitive nature and not because they believe in slavery of any kind.In any case this attitude also occurs because many Iyers do not closely interact with other castes and are confined to within their group.

6.Iyers like to believe themselves to be honest.Many of them are extremely hardworking and sincere ,whatever may be their vocation,although corrupt Iyers are not unknown.The one feature that is common among many Iyers,is their desire to lead simple and austere lives no matter how much they earn.

7.Iyers like many other hindus,revere cows and worship them.

It needs to be added that none of these statements can be fully applied to the young Iyers,who live more with people outside their community.Nonvegetarianism,alcoholism,atheism,vulgar lifestyles have become common.On the other hand there are more Intercaste marriages,and there is better interaction with lower castes.The modern day Iyers follow the ethics of the vocation they practice.For instance an Iyer scientist who needs to experiment on animals would do so,even if he were a Strict vegetarian.Iyers,from extremely orthodox families,might not hesitate to eat meat or drink alcohol,when working in the armed forces,even if the individual believes in his/her traditions.

Many modern Iyers would never reveal themselves as Iyers,unless it was necessary and are much more integrated with society than their forefathers.


Iyers today

In addition to their earlier occupations, Iyers today have diversified into a variety of fields—their strengths particularly evident in the fields of mass media, science, mathematics and computer science. It is a minuscule percentage of Iyers who choose, in this era, to pursue the traditional vocation of priesthood, though nearly all Hindu priests are Brahmins. Iyers have been active in the cultural field also. Music has always been integral to the Iyer community; Carnatic music forms a sacred tradition, and includes, apart from vocal music, instruments such as mridangam, naadaswaram, veena, ghatam, etc., Bharatanatyam, though a dance form originally considered unrespectable by caste Hindus, has been ardently pursued by female members of the Iyer community from the time of its reinvention in early 20th century. However, Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam do not enjoy public patronage during the Chennai cultural season in the months of December and January.

Iyers were generally an insular community, strictly following traditions in their private realm. However, in the public realm, they were very progressive. Though today the situation has changed a lot, the way of life of an Iyer retains a considerable amount of continuity with the past. The unique culture of the Iyers is easily identifiable and is sometimes open to parody, especially in movies and television today. It has been the general trend for such portrayals not to be met with stiff resistance from the Iyer community. One vivid image which is parody and truth at the same time is the picture of an Iyer priest complete in traditional dhoti, hair knot and sacred thread (poonool) riding a motorbike rushing to conduct a ritual.

Some notable Iyers in the Modern Era

Spiritual Leaders The list of Spiritual Leaders is large.It is sufficient to name some of the Great Teachers.

Scientists and Academicians

Not all names can be put here as there are many Iyers who have served as directors of National Institutes. If any important name is missing, the list may be updated to include the person.

  • Sir CV Raman (Nobel laureate and physicist)
  • Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar (Nobel laureate and physicist)
  • G. N. Ramachandran http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl1809/18091210.htm] (Biochemist who solved the three-dimensional x-ray diffraction structure of collagen, and whose "Ramachandran plot" describing the stearic freedom available to amino acids in proteins is described in nearly every basic Biochemistry text book)
  • R.S. Krishnan Scientist Emeritus, Ex-Head of Physics. Dept. IISc, Ex-Vice Chancellor of Trivandrum University, a favorite protégé of Sir C.V.Raman & also has an effect to his name - Krishnan Effect
  • Vilayanur Ramachandran Neuro Scientist,University of San Diego
  • M S Swaminathan (b. 1925) was (not) the father of the Green Revolution in Indian agriculture in the 1960s. C.Subramaniam, a Gounder stateman was. As a result of his efforts, India became a net exporter of food by the mid 1970s. Swaminathan however has been Director General, International Rice Research Institute (Manila), and has received the Magsaysay Award (1971).
  • S.R. Ranganathan (Father of Library Science!?)
  • Raghavan Narasimhan Iyer Indian-born political philosopher and Hindu scholar.(who the hell is this fella?
  • P.S.Lokanathan World Renowned Economist(never heard of him.
  • Rajagopala Chidambaram Former Director of BARC.
  • K.Kasturangan Former ISRO Chairman
  • T N Ananthakrishnan Former Director, Zoological Survey of India, Calcutta
  • L.A.Ramadas Former Director of Meteriological department of Government of India
  • Krishnaswami Alladi Chairman,Department of Mathematics,University of Florida


Journalists and Writers

Advocates and Social Activists


Patriots and Freedom Fighters(Just three of them?)


Sports players

Performers in Modern music and arts of the new age

Distinguised Civil Servants and other people in the Government

Distinguished people in the Entertaintment Industry

Performers of Classical arts

Carnatic musicians Since the mid-20th century, Carnatic music has been dominated by Iyers. As a result, below is only a selection of the most popular Carnatic musicians of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Other famous people

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