Kanu or Kandu is a caste that has been historically associated with trading activities, confectionery (sweet-making), shop-keeping, grain-parching, etc.
[citation needed] The community has been given the status of OBC at the all India level and BC-I in the state of Bihar for reservation purposes.
In the rich cultural heritage of the Kanu community, Baba Purushottamanathji Maharaj (बाबा पुरुषोत्तमनाथजी महाराज) is fondly remembered alongside kuldevi (family goddess) Maya Bandi/ Bandi Bhagwati.
As the kuladhipati (head of the family) of the Kanus, his legacy is cherished through numerous stories, songs, and folklore, which are lovingly recounted and sung by the community.
Palwaiya in the Vaishali district of Bihar is considered to be a sacred place for the Kandu as it is the birthplace of Saint Ganinath,[4][5] the kulguru of the community.