[1] The story is based on the life of Shaivite saint Nandanar (also known as Thirunaalai Povar – thee who pilgrims tomorrow) and his becoming of a Naayanar.

Hassandas, a textile magnate from Madras and a member of Chellaram business family was keen on making a film with Sundarambal in the lead.

[7][8][9][10] The film was directed by Manik Lal Tandon with Ellis Dungan shooting many scenes in his absence.

Due to the prevailing social norms and her respect for Iyer, Sundarambal refused to do the scene.

[1] The completed film cost ₹3 lakh (equivalent to ₹10 crore or US$1.2 million in 2023) to make and was 18000 feet long.

Kalki Krishnamurthy made fun of it in Ananda Vikatan by claiming buffaloes and palm trees had acted well in the film.

[13] Writing in the April 1938 issue of the Eelakesari, Pudhumaipithan explained the reasons for its failure: ..Nandanar was released.

[14]However it received favourable reviews in 15 July 1935 issues of The Hindu, Tamil Nadu, Sudesamithran and Cinema Ulagam.