yeah i forgot about that but still it was pressing matter unless he was testing ashura. But no it seems less ridiculous, thanks.
He was about to use his power to block Susano'o's sword and save his disciples, but Ashura blocked it.
Then Hagoromo tried to make everyone cooperate to lend some power to Ashura by their bond.
Hagoromo wanted the battle to be a love VS power match, so that Indra and every human may understand the power of love.