Markandeshwara Temple

Markandeshwara Temple is located at Kallur near Raichur -Karnataka. The temple is named after the famous Maharishi Markandeya who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.Based on his unending and whole hearted devotion to Shiva, the temple in turn was named after him and his dedication.The temple is known for its beautifully carved pillars and other carvings in it. Dated back to 12th century, this temple is believed to be the oldest temple in the village. Mahashivratri is one of the major festivals that take place in this temple.

It is said that Krishnadevaraya along with his family of the Vijayanagar Empire used to worship at the six different temples present in this town. History claims that he would never miss out on an opportunity to worship in these temples as he considered it to be one of the most holy and sacred places. Sorting fort and being a devoted individual Krishnadevaraya labelled the marked the temple as one of his very dear places.

According to folklore, Rishi Mrikandu and his wife Devi Marudvati did not have children for a long time. Hence, the Rishi prayed to Lord Shiva. Pleased with his prayers, Lord Shiva appeared in front of him and asked Rishi Mrikandu if he wanted one hundred foolish children who would live long, or do you want an intelligent son who would live for just 16yrs? So, the Rishi chose to have one intelligent son. In a course of time, they had a son who was named, Markandeya. The boy grew up to be brilliant and handsome.

The Rishi performed Upanayana (sacred thread ceremony) for him, and Markandeya became well versed, in all the Vedas and Shastras. As the age progressed, his parents started worrying more. After learning about the reason for his parents to worry, Markandeya told them not to worry and decided to pray to Lord Shiva, day and night. Even when the time came for Markandeya to leave this world, he continued praying Lord Shiva. Therefore, when an enraged Yama put the noose around Markandeya and ordered him to go with him, immediately, Lord Shiva emerged from the Shiva Linga, pushed Yama aside, and defeated him in a battle.After which, Lord Shiva declared that Markandeya would live forever. Therefore, the Markandeshwara temple was named after Markandeya and his devotion towards Lord Shiva, who gave him immortality.

The story is one of the most sacred ones, told in the district of Raichur, and carries a certain, spiritual connection for people living there.