Markandeya’s Austerity

Chapter 8

Having heard about cosmic annihilation, Saunaka was confused about Markandeya Rishi, who seemed to defy this universal scheme.

Suta Goswami narrated how Markandeya had taken the vow of perpetual celibacy, and maintained this for six lifetimes of Manu. In the seventh Manu, Indra sent Kamadeva and a host of other allurements to seduce him, but the Rishi was undeviated. Pleased by his complete focus, the Lord appeared before him as the Nara-Narayana Rishis. Markandeya was overjoyed, and warmly received Them in the customary way while offering wonderful prayers.