Vishwamitra's unflinching determination to seek the blessings and become a Brahmarishi puts Lord Indra, the King of Heavens in a spot. Fearful of the sage's power and the resultant boon if his penance is successful, the wily Indra sends the beautiful and sensuous apsara -- Menaka -- to break Vishwamitra's penance and the sage, try as he may, falls for her breathtaking beauty.