Sage Markandeya

Markandeya is one of the ancient sages of India. He is considered to be a Chiranjeevi, one who would live forever. There is a story in the Puranas as to how he was helped by Lord Shiva from the clutches of the god of death and blessed to live forever. There is a temple at Thirukkadaiyur near Mayiladuthurai which is associated with this incident. I have briefly sketched the story of Sage Markandeya in this episode.

One of the important hymns stated to have been composed by Sage Markandeya is the Maha Mrityunjaya Stotram. In this stotram we may notice that the sentence ‘Namami shirasa devam kim no mrityu karishyati’ comes almost throughout the hymn. It means ‘What can the god of death do to me as I bow by head before Lord Shiva’. It is somewhat like a challenge to the god of death saying that I am the devotee of Lord Shiva and you can’t do anything to me.

The recitation or hearing of this hymn is said to alleviate the fear of death and bring welfare and happiness. I have recited this hymn within this episode.

I have also brought about an audio book titled ‘Ancient Sages of India’ which will be available with leading audio book-sellers like Google’s play books. 

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/ancient-sages-of-india

https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details/VENKATARAMAN_M_Ancient_Sages_of_India?id=AQAAAECcenU6-M

https://www.chirpbooks.com/audiobooks/ancient-sages-of-india-by-venkataraman-m

https://www.scribd.com/audiobook/478085404/Ancient-Sages-of-India

https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/ancient-sages-of-india/461360

https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/id1533790027

https://www.nookaudiobooks.com/audiobook/1021931/Ancient-Sages-of-India

https://shop.authors-direct.com/products/ancient-sages-of-india