the Ultimate Web on Indian Gods & Temples

 by Padmani,

Long ago, there was a Brahmin named Mrukand. He chanted the Vedas always. His only worry was that he did not have a son. Desired to get a son, he went and performed tough penance in the Himalayas. Due to his tough penance, the Earth shivered. Goddess Parvathi requested to Lord Shiva as he is Your devotee, please fulfill his desire. Lord Shiva accepted that. Then the sky voice instructed the Brahmin to worship the child giving Shivalinga in the east of Pathneshwar at Mahakal forest. The Brahmin did as per the advice. Lord Shiva appeared there and blessed him with a child. Due to Lord Shiva's boon, Sage Markandeya appeared there. Then the sage offered pooja to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva said that the Linga will be known as Markandeshwar. Whoever worships this Linga, will live happily and will reach Heaven after death.