Markandeya Purana, one of the oldest Purana of India is a Sanskrit text of Hinduism. Markandeya refers to a rishi (sage) in Indian mythology who is the central character in two legends, one related to Shiva and the other to Vishnu. Devi Mahatmya, which is the oldest known treatise on Devi (goddess) as the Supreme Truth and creator of the universe, is a noteworthy aspect of this Puran. Markandeya Purana has survived and has made its way into the modern era in numerous versions giving an idea about its contents and characters. Given below are the Characters of Markandeya Purana like Markandeya, Demon Mahisha, Dama, King Khaninetra and Khanitra.
Markandeya
Markandeya, a devotee of both Shiva and Vishnu was an ancient rishi. He was born in the clan of Bhrigu Rishi. He is a part of the Markandeya Purana, Bhagavata Purana and Mahabharata. Markandeya Purana contains a dialogue between Markandeya and a sage called Jaimini. In Bhagavata Purana, a number of chapters are dedicated to his conversations and prayers. Markandeya Tirtha is the place where the sage Markandeya wrote the Markandeya Purana. It is situated on a trekking route to the Yamunotri Shrine in the Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand.
Demon Mahisha
As highlighted in Indian Mythology, there was a time when demons controlled the priests and consumed the offerings which were made to Gods. One such demon was Mahisha. He was buffalo-headed. The power of the demons became a matter of concern for the Gods. Consequently, they created Durga from different parts of their body. Durga destroyed Mahisha during her battle of the Gods with the asuras. According to Mahabharata, Mahisha was a monster who was killed by Skanda.
Dama
Dama was a prince and the son of Narishyanta. Dama is known to rescue his bride Sumana, daughter of the king Dasarha from his rivals. Dama is also known to kill Bapushmat in retaliation and made the Pinda or obsequial offering to his father of his flesh.
King Khaninetrat
The valiant, gallant and generous Khaninetra was the son of King Vivinsha. Khaninetra is known for donating the whole earth after completing ten thousand Yajnas. The Brahmins received so much wealth from Khaninetra as donations that there was no need for them to take donations for the rest of their lives.
Khanitra
Khanitra was the brother of Khaninetra. The two brothers were the descendants of Nedishtha.
