Topic Archive

Myths about Self-Destruction

Explore myths connected by the recurring theme of Self-Destruction across cultures, characters, and sacred places.

1 myth currently featured for Self-Destruction.

Bhasmasura Burning Himself to Ashes by Tricking into Touching His Own Head

🕉️ Hindu MythologyYana Caves, Karnataka, IndiaBhasmasura • Lord Shiva • Lord Vishnu

The demon Bhasmasura receives a boon from Lord Shiva that allows him to turn anyone into ashes by touching their head. When the demon attempts to use this power on Shiva himself, Lord Vishnu intervenes in the form of the beautiful dancer Mohini, tricking Bhasmasura into a dance that leads him to touch his own head and perish. The scorched landscape of the Yana Caves is traditionally said to...