Demon Bhasmasura performed intense ‘tapas’ (penance) for several years with only the thought of Shiva. Asur Bhasmasura kept on chanting nothing but Siva, Siva... Finally, Shiva relented and granted the demon the boon that he asked – that he could burn to ashes anyone whose head he placed his hand. There are numerous versions of the story. Below are some of the popular versions. An Asura, Bhasmasura showed his true color and he wanted to test the power of the boon by placing his hand on Shiva’s head. Shiva fled in terror and sought the help of Vishnu. Now, Bhasmasura had the evil desire to seduce Goddess Parvati. This was one reason why he was chasing Shiva. Vishnu who knew about this evil desire took the form of Goddess Parvati. This form of Lord Vishnu is known Lakshmanjati. Vishnu in the form of Lakshmanjati was able to garner the attention of Bhasmasura. Soon, Bhasmasura forgot about touching Shiva’s head and followed Vishnu, who was in the guis