The Fruits of Blessings: According to the Padma Purana, even if a person leads a simple life without getting entangled in ritualistic practices but follows the path of righteousness and philanthropy, they will be blessed by this Purana. Such a person will enjoy a long life. There is a well-known story related to this. Bhasma's son, Mashkandu, had no children. So, he and his wife went to the forest and performed a rigorous penance. As a result of this penance, they were blessed with a son, whom they named Markandeya. When Markandeya turned five, a Siddha Yogi visited his hut. Out of fear and devotion, young Markandeya greeted the Siddha Yogi, who then became concerned. Mashkandu asked the Yogi for the reason behind his concern. The Siddha Yogi replied, "Respected sage, your son is very beautiful, virtuous, and knowledgeable, but unfortunately, he has only six months to live." Sage Mashkandu listened carefully to the sage's words. He then performed Markandeya's Upanayana (sacred thread ceremony) and explained all its rituals to him. He advised his son, "Show respect to anyone older than you." Markandeya took his father's advice to heart and began respecting everyone he met, whether they were well-known or strangers, even if they were slightly older than him. As time passed, the sixth month approached. When the five days before Markandeya's predicted demise arrived, the Saptarishis (seven sages) visited him. The young Markandeya touched their feet respectfully and bowed to them. The Saptarishis blessed Markandeya, saying, "May you live long, dear child." They realized that only five days of Markandeya's life were remaining. Concerned that their blessing might go unfulfilled, they pondered over their next steps because: "Longevity, karma, financial status, knowledge, and death—these five aspects are determined by Brahma, the creator of the universe." Recognizing that only Brahma could extend Markandeya's life, the Saptarishis brought the boy to Brahma. Markandeya respectfully bowed to Brahma, who was also pleased with him, and blessed him, saying, "May you live long!" However, the Saptarishis explained to Brahma, "The boy has only five days left. So, please do something to extend his life, for your blessing must come true." Brahma then declared, "This boy's life will be as long as mine." With this blessing, Markandeya became immortal by achieving longevity equal to Brahma's. During the time of cosmic destruction, when the great deluge occurs on Earth, Sage Markandeya will survive and witness the vision of the divine. Being immortal, Markandeya has witnessed countless Chaturyugas (four-age cycles). Hail Markandeya, Namah Shivaya. 🙏🚩 (✍️ Su. Ja.) *Sanatana Rashtra Bhakts 🚩*