Bhasmasura Vadha Katha – Chapter 4: Mohini's Dance and Deception

Mohini's Dance and Deception

In the previous chapter, the gods prayed to Lord Vishnu to be freed from the atrocities of Bhasmasura. Lord Vishnu heard their prayers and assured them that he would soon find a solution. This chapter now shows how Lord Vishnu, taking the form of Mohini, slays Bhasmasura.

Vishnu's Mohini Form

Hearing the entreaties of the gods, Lord Vishnu's heart melted. He thought for a moment and then said with a divine smile, "Gods, do not worry. I will shatter Bhasmasura's pride. I will use a stratagem by which he himself will become the cause of his destruction." Saying this, Lord Vishnu transformed himself into a wondrously beautiful woman with his divine power. Her form was such as if beauty itself was taking shape. Her eyes were as restless as a deer's, her lips like rose petals, and her gait like that of a majestic elephant.

The gods watched this wondrous form in amazement. Indra asked, "O Vishnu, what is this wondrous form? Is it some illusion?" Vishnu smiled and said, "This is not an illusion, but Mohini. I will appear before Bhasmasura in this form and enchant him with my beauty." He harbored no malice towards Bhasmasura, only compassion to save the gods and the world. He knew that it was impossible to defeat that demon without deception.

Mohini's Dance Performance

Vishnu, in the guise of Mohini, appeared before Bhasmasura. Bhasmasura was stunned upon seeing Mohini! He had never seen such a form before. Mohini said in her sweet voice, "O brave one, I have heard much about your strength and valor. I wish to see your dancing skills." Bhasmasura, completely lost in Mohini's beauty, immediately said, "O beautiful one, I am your servant. I will do whatever you say."

Mohini began to dance. Every step, every expression, every movement of her body was as if a divine Apsara was dancing. Bhasmasura watched her, completely mesmerized. Mohini deliberately performed some very difficult poses. She placed her hands on her head and then asked him to dance by placing his hand on his own head. Lord Shiva's grace was upon her, for he knew that this was all a play and that ultimately righteousness would triumph.

Bhasmasura's Destruction

At Mohini's bidding, Bhasmasura also attempted to dance in the same manner. Mimicking Mohini, he placed his hand on his head. As soon as he did so, the power he had received from Lord Shiva became active, and he himself was consumed by fire! In an instant, that powerful demon turned into a pile of ashes.

The gods cheered from heaven. Victory to Lord Vishnu! Victory to Mohini! Finally, their deception freed them from Bhasmasura's terror. Shiva's boon, which was destructive for Bhasmasura, ultimately became the cause of liberation for the gods. Vishnu fulfilled his promise and freed the gods from Bhasmasura's atrocities.