### The Tale of Shiva and Bhasmasura

**Introduction**:

The tale of Shiva and Bhasmasura is one of the remarkable and significant stories in Hindu mythology. This story teaches us how the misuse of power can lead to our own destruction.

**Main Story**:

Bhasmasura was a demon who performed intense penance to please Lord Shiva. Pleased with his penance, Lord Shiva offered him a boon. Bhasmasura asked for the boon that anyone whose head he touches would be reduced to ashes.

Lord Shiva granted Bhasmasura this boon. Now, to test his power, Bhasmasura attempted to place his hand on Shiva's head. Realizing his mistake, Shiva immediately fled from the scene.

**Shiva's Flight and Vishnu's Intervention**:

Lord Shiva ran to various places to escape from Bhasmasura, but the demon continued to chase him. Finally, Lord Vishnu decided to help Shiva.

Vishnu took the form of Mohini, an extraordinarily beautiful and enchanting woman. In this form, Vishnu captivated Bhasmasura. Bhasmasura expressed his desire to marry Mohini.

Mohini proposed that they should first engage in a dance, to which Bhasmasura readily agreed. During the dance, Mohini cleverly manipulated Bhasmasura into various postures and eventually convinced him to place his hand on his own head.

As soon as Bhasmasura placed his hand on his head, he was reduced to ashes, thus meeting his end.

**Interesting Facts**:

1. **Mohini Form**: The Mohini form of Lord Vishnu is a unique and special avatar in Indian mythology, which only Vishnu can assume.

2. **Bhasmasura's Penance**: Bhasmasura's penance was so severe that he managed to please even Lord Shiva, the great god of penance himself.

3. **Boon and Curse**: This story illustrates how a boon, when placed in the wrong hands, can become a curse.

**Conclusion**:

The tale of Shiva and Bhasmasura teaches us that the misuse of power is never justified and eventually leads to one's destruction. Moreover, this story highlights the cleverness and greatness of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.