Meaning & Lineage
Meaning: Markandeya is the name of the immortal sage who defeated death through devotion to Shiva.
Why Was This Name Given?
Granted a brilliant but short life, the boy Markandeya clung to Shiva’s idol as Yama came for him at sixteen — and Shiva, moved, made him immortal. His name means deathless devotion.
The Story
Destined to die at sixteen, Markandeya embraced a Shiva-lingam as the noose of Yama, the god of death, fell upon him. Shiva burst forth to defend his devotee and blessed him with eternal youth.
His name is a blessing of long life, courage and devotion that outlasts even death.
Numerology: 3 · Rashi: Mesh · Nakshatra: Bharani · Lucky Colour: Red · Scripture: Markandeya Purana
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Markandeya immortal?
Shiva granted him eternal life after he clung to devotion even as death came for him at sixteen.