In the
Vishnu Purana, Mrikanda is described as the son of Vidhatri, a son of
Bhrigu and
Khyati, and Niyati, one of the two daughters of
Meru. Mrikanda becomes the father of the sage
Markandeya. The
Markandeya Purana names Manasvini as Mrikanda's wife. Mrikanda is venerated as the founder of weaving, and as a result of the gods' gratitude he was granted two boons--a tiger and a giant. The giant disobeyed Mrikandaʻs orders and was summarily slain, but the tiger was obedient, and thus lived. According to modern
Koshta folklore, if a tiger is encountered in the jungle it is enough only to speak Mrikanda's name to prevent oneself from being attacked by it. Mrikanda is still seen as a watchful and protective figure in folklore. In addition to being the father of modern weaving, he is also venerated as the father of
Markandeya, the
rishi (sage) who is featured extensively in the
Markandeya Purana. According to legend, Mrikanda and his wife Marudmati worshipped
Shiva and sought from him the boon of begetting a son. As a result, he was given the choice of either a righteous son, but with a short life on earth or a child of low intelligence but with a long life. Mrikanda chose the former, and was blessed with Markandeya, an exemplary son, who was nevertheless destined to die at the age of 16. == Sources ==