Story Summary
Discover the tale of Mohini and the Amrita, where Lord Vishnu takes an enchanting form to outsmart the Asuras and secure the nectar of immortality for the Devas.
After the great churning of the ocean, the Samudra Manthan, the divine physician Dhanvantari emerged carrying the Kalasha filled with Amrita, the nectar of immortality. A fierce struggle immediately broke out between the Devas and the Asuras, as both sides craved the nectar to become invincible. Fearing that the Asuras would use immortality to spread chaos, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of Mohini, a woman of unparalleled beauty and enchantment. Her grace was so captivating that the Asuras were immediately entranced, losing all interest in the fight. They willingly asked Mohini to mediate the distribution of the nectar. With a clever smile, Mohini seated the Devas and Asuras in two separate rows. Using her charms to keep the Asuras distracted, she began serving the Amrita only to the Devas. One demon, Svarbhanu, sensed the trick and disguised himself as a god to receive a drop. However, the Sun and Moon exposed him. Vishnu immediately used his Sudarshana Chakra to behead the demon, but because he had already tasted the nectar, his head and body remained immortal as Rahu and Ketu. By the time the Asuras realized the deception, the Amrita was gone, and the Devas had regained their strength, ensuring the preservation of cosmic order.
The Moral
True power belongs to those with the wisdom and righteousness to use it for the collective good rather than selfish gain.
“When wisdom guides beauty, the balance of the universe is restored.”
Fun Fact
Mohini is the only female incarnation among the various avatars of Lord Vishnu, and she even appears in later stories to test the wisdom of Lord Shiva.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mohini in Hindu mythology?
Mohini is the only female avatar of Lord Vishnu, known for her peerless beauty and her role in outsmarting the Asuras during the distribution of the nectar of immortality.
What was the purpose of the Mohini avatar?
The primary purpose was to ensure that the Amrita (nectar of immortality) was consumed by the Devas (gods) rather than the Asuras (demons), thereby maintaining the cosmic balance.
How did Mohini trick the Asuras?
She used her enchanting beauty and charm to distract the Asuras, leading them to trust her blindly while she served the nectar exclusively to the Devas.
What is the origin of Rahu and Ketu in this story?
The demon Svarbhanu sat among the gods to steal the nectar. When Vishnu beheaded him, his immortal head became Rahu and his body became Ketu, explaining the cause of eclipses in mythology.
What does 'Amrita' mean?
Amrita is a Sanskrit word that translates to 'immortality' or 'nectar of the gods,' produced during the churning of the cosmic ocean.
In which Puranas is the story of Mohini found?
The story of Mohini and the distribution of Amrita is prominently featured in the Bhagavata Purana, the Mahabharata, and the Vishnu Purana.