Markandeya

Sage Mrikandu was leading an ascetic life in a forest. His wife was Marudhvathi. They were childless for a long time. Mrikandu performed intense tapas for several years in order to please Lord Shiva to have childrens. Lord Shiva in all his splendour appeared before him. He said, “I am pleased by your devotion. Ask from me any boon you desire.” Mrikandu was overjoyed. He prayed to Lord Shiva thus: “O Lord! I am childless. Grant me a son.” The Lord said in reply, “Do you desire to have a virtuous, wise and pious son who will live up to sixteen years or a dull- witted, evil-natured son who will live long?” The sage Mrikandu did not hesitate over the choice. He did not want a worthless son. ...View all