‘Maha’ meaning ‘Great’ and ‘Deva’ meaning ‘Lord’ is often synonymous of Lord Shiva. The name Markandey was the name of divine boy who was born to a couple by blessing of Lord Shiva. But in General it is considered that Markandey was the incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is also considered as a sage who composed Maha mrityunjaya Mantra or hymn. The hymn is popularly chanted in all rituals of Hindus. It is believed that Maha mrityunjaya mantra makes one free from fear of death. In Indian mythology Gods are often represented as incarnation because of staunch belief of rebirth rooted in Hindu Religion.
