The mythology surrounding these deities varies considerably by region and deity. However several basic trends can be established. For instance, most village deities are rooted in the idea that some form of "Shakti" is the primordial force in the universe, sometimes called "Adi Shakti" or "Adi Mahashakti". From her arose all other deities, including the "Trimurti" of Brahminical traditions. The village goddesses are usually related as "avatars" of Adi Shakti. Each deity will have an origin story of some kind to explain why they do not appear in the Puranas. An example of this is Aiyanar, whose origin story in the Arcot region is related to the story of Padmasuran (also known as Bhasmasura), who was given a boon by Siva to turn anyone whose head he touched into ash. But Padmasuran attacked Siva himself, who became frightened turned into an "aivelangai" fruit. However Shiva's brother-in-law Mahavishnu heard his plea for help and appeared as Mohini. Entrancing the Asura, Mohini said he had to take a bath in order to be hers. The Asura could only find a small amount of water and put it on his head, after which he burst into ashes. Vishnu then told Siva all was clear and after being told the tale, Siva wished to see Vishnu as Mohini. When he obliged, Siva became aroused and his semen came out. To prevent it from touching the ground Mahavishnu caught it in his hand and Aiyanar was born. This invention of tradition is a way to explain why these deities do not appear in the Puranic stories and to give them a sense of "legitimacy" in the greater tradition. Another myth from that same region about the origin of another popular deity, Muneeshwarar, claims he was created directly by Adi Shakti, before Siva or even Ganesha.