A great sage who was blessed with immortality after being saved from Yama (death) by Shiva. Author of the Markandeya Purana, which contains the Devi Mahatmya (Durga Saptashati). Known for his devotion to Shiva and his vision of cosmic dissolution.
Depicted as a young sage (due to his immortality). Often shown embracing a Shiva linga as Yama is repelled. Associated with the story of conquering death.