Mohini Avatar of Vishnu: Origin, Stories, and Her Son Ayyappa

The Vedic Culture or as people call it, hindu mythology, is full of legends. There are so many stories related to gods and goddesses. Each of them highlights the beauty of Vedic Culture with some spiritual and moral values. However, one such story is about the Mohini Avatar of Vishnu. So, in this blog you will read how Mohini defeated powerful Asuras with her beauty, and help Devtas achieve nectar.

Origins of Mohini Avatar of Vishnu

Firstly, let us start by knowing the origins of Mohini Avatar. Starting from her name, Mohini means captivating. Thus, the name highlights the captivating beauty. However, other synonyms of Mohini means Maya or illusion. Although the stories of Mohini avatar of Vishnu are present in various texts, its reference in Bhagavat Purana confirmed its origin. There is a story in it which describes Mohini as a woman with such captivating beauty that can enchant anyone. Now, let’s see the stories related to her.

Stories Related to Mohini Avatar of Vishnu

Moreover, there are so many stories related to Mohini, while some of the most famous ones are as below.

Samudra Manthan & The Quest For Amrit (Nectar)

Similarly, the story of Samudra Manthan describes the time when the Devas and Asuras came together to churn the ocean. While so many priceless objects came out of it. And Amrit was one among these, which gives the boon of immortality. Thus, Asuras made plans to keep it for themselves. Thus, Devas reached Vishnu and pleaded for help. So, to help Devas, Vishnu took the avatar as Mohini who uses the power of seduction to divert Asuras. Thus, opening a window for Devas to secure the nectar, cleverly. But here’s a twist.

Birth of Rahu & Ketu After Mohini Beheaded Swarbhanu

Meanwhile, an Asura Swarbhanu takes the form of a Deva and drinks the nectar. Surya dev and Chandra Dev inform Vishnu immediately. So, he sliced Swarbhanu’s head with his Sudharshan Chakra. But before this Swarbhanu had drunk some nectar, hence his head became immortal. Thus, making his head immortal, which we know today as Rahu. While the rest of the body is Ketu. However, they always cause an eclipse on the sun and the moon Because they were the ones to inform Bhagvan Vishnu, so, Rahu and Ketu often cause an eclipse on these.

The Story of Mohini Avatar of Vishnu & Bhasmasura

Moving on, the next story is very famous. You may have heard this in your childhood. As per this story, once Bholenath bestows a boon to an Asura. It states that if he places his hand on a person then they will get burned. Thus, his name became Bhasmasura. However, Bholenath regretted his decision later. So, to correct his mistake Bhagvan Vishnu takes Mohini avatar. She challenges Bhasmasura to see if he can copy her dance steps. However, in one step she keeps his hand on his head, Bhasmasura copies it as per the challenge. Thus, he instantly got burned.

Mohini Robs Virochana’s Magical Crown

Another story is about Virochana, the king of Asuras. Additionally, Surya Dave gave him a magical crown which protects him against all kinds of danger. Thus, to defeat Virochana, Vishnu takes the form of Mohini. She captivates him with her unimaginable beauty and steals his crown. Thus, leaving him defenseless then she defeats him eventually.

Mohini, Shiva and Their son Ayyappa

So, this story is very least popular. However, it holds great significance too. As per many Vedic scriptures and Purans, once Shiv ji and Mohini avatar of Vishnu united to give birth to Ayyappa. Later, Parshuram ji trains him to become a great warrior. Although he successfully matches Parshuram ji in terms of power. In present, Ayyappa is widely worshiped in the South India. 

Temples of Mohini

Finally, that’s all for the stories of Mohini Avatar. Moreover, there are two important temples devoted to Mohini. One is the Jaganmohini Kesava Swamy Temple, in the Rayali district of Andhra Pradesh. While another is the Mahalasa Narayani Temple, in Goa. Moreover, these two are the chief temples devoted to Mohini. However, people worship her to seek her on Mohini Ekadashi. They observe fast on this day and seek blessings of goddess Mohini. Also, to gain a better control over their senses and mind. So that materialistic possessions cannot divert them.

Mohini As Goddess Mahalasa Narayani

Additionally, in the Western region of India, people worship Mohini as Mahalasa Narayani Devi.  Her name “Mahalasa” is seen as another name for Mohini, and “Narayani” connects her to Vishnu. Moreover, this form has four hands. One is holding a Trishul (Trident), another holds a sword, a chopped head, and a bowl in the third and fourth hands. Also, the head she is holding is of Rahu and a tiger is drinking the blood dripping from his head.

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Importance of Vishnu’s Mohini Avatar  

In conclusion, the Mohini avatar of Vishnu has a separate spiritual significance. As she is beautiful with a brain. Just like how she defeats Bhasmasur with her intelligence. And uses her seduction abilities to misguide Asuras and attain Nectar. Moreover, her puja on Mohini Ekadashi reflects the desire for self-control and resistance against worldly temptations. The association with Mahalasa Narayani Devi emphasizes her multifaceted nature and enduring presence in Hindu traditions.

FAQs

1.) Who is the son of Mohini and Shiva?

As per various Puranic texts, Shiv ji and Vishnu’s Mohini avatar get together for a divine union, therefore, giving birth to Ayyappa, their son. Who grew up to become a great warrior and defeats Mahishi Asura.

2.) Who was killed by Mohini Avatar of Vishnu?

During the Samudra Manthan, Vishnu assumed the form of Mohini and killed Rahu as he tried to drink nectar. Additionally, she killed an Asura named Bhasmasur too.

3.) Are Mohini and Mahalasa Narayani same?

Yes, both of them are the same. In the western part of India, people worship Mahalasa Narayani as Mohini.