Bhasmasura

Bhamasura was a wicked man. He wanted to be a powerful king but he was neither strong nor brave. To become strong he thought of attaining some magical power and therefore decided to worship Lord Shiva for the attainment of the same. Bhamasura selected a quiet place in a dense jungle and sat worshipping Shiva. At last Shiva pleased with Bhamasura's prayers appeared before him, and asked him what does he want in return for his prayers. Bhamasura replied "O Lord", "I only want your blessings". Shiva said, you have my blessings and if you want any gift from me go ahead and ask for it and you will have it. Hearing this the clever Bhasmasura said, "then let me have the power, anybody whose head I touch with my right hand should be reduced to ashes". So it be Shiva said.

The wicked Bhamasura said that I would test the power on you first my lord and immediately jumped to touch Lord Shiva's head. Shiva's life was in danger. Shiva ran over hills and mountains but Bhasmasura closely followed him. Shiva prayed to Lord Vishnu to save his life.

Vishnu immediately responded to Shiva's call and asked him to hide somewhere. Lord Vishnu changed his form to Mohini, the most beautiful of women. Seeing Mohini Bhasmasura stopped, and asked her if she had seen Shiva. Mohini replied "my Lord you look tired, take little rest and then go ahead in your pursuit". "Who are you?" he asked. I am Mohini. I live in this jungle with my parents and help those who pass this way. She was so beautiful that Bhasmasura immediately fell in love with her. Will you marry me, he asked Mohini. Mohini replied, how can I marry you. "You may have a number of wives already". "I have no wife and you will be my only wife". Mohini said what is the guarantee that you will not marry again. I give you word that I will not look at any other women if you marry me. All right, said Mohini then take the oath touching your head with your right hand. Bhasmasura agreed, and touched his head with his right hand. The moment he did this he was reduced to ashes. Shiva came out of hiding and thanked Mohini. In a moment, Mohini disappeared and in her place stood Lord Vishnu.