Although usually classified as an Esoteric or Tantric form of the bodhisattva, the eleven-headed (ekādaśamukha) type is thought to be one of the earliest iconographic depictions of Avalokiteśvara to develop, predating the emergence of Vajrayāna Buddhism.

[4][5] It is known that certain aspects of the Hindu god Shiva (Rudra) and elements of Shaivism both influenced and were incorporated into Buddhism, playing a role in the development of Avalokiteśvara's cult.

[4][6] A relief carving of the eleven-headed Avalokiteśvara in Kanheri (Cave 41), dating from the late 5th to early 6th century, is both the earliest extant example of this iconographic type and the only surviving Ekādaśamukha image in India.

[9] In Japan, Ekādaśamukha also historiclally enjoyed a high degree of popularity, with images of the bodhisattva being installed as the main focus of veneration (honzon) in many temples.

He was eventually tamed by Avalokiteśvara, who assumed the form of an elephant-headed female demoness and embraced him, thereby causing him to achieve great bliss and abandon his evil ways.