This is the moment devotees slide on a 100-feet long and 25-feet tall pole hanging by their skin in South India.

They make the bizarre journey holding offerings to a deity and some of them even carry babies.

The traditional ritual called ‘Poontherottam’ took place at Kamakshi Amman temple in Chengam in South India on February 4.

Every year, an idol of goddess Kamakshi is brought out in a ceremonial procession during the festival.

On a street near the temple, a 100-feet long pole is horizontally suspended with the help of a plinth.

The skin on the back of the devotees is pierced with iron hooks, which are then tethered to the pole. The legs and hands of the devotees are also fastened to the pole for additional support before they slide.

Many devotees do not slide down the pole but just stay suspended mid-air with hands folded and hanging just on the support of the iron hooks.

‘Poontherottam’ is popular among couples who believe that making the difficult offering will please the goddess who will bless them with children.

Many carry their babies while sliding as a thanksgiving gesture to the goddess.

A local resident Arunachalam said: “Temple officials walk right below the babies to make sure there are no mishaps.”

This is the moment devotees slide on a 100-feet long and 25-feet tall pole hanging by their skin in in South India.

They make the bizarre journey holding offerings to a deity and some of them even carry babies.

The traditional ritual called ‘Poontherottam’ was observed at Kamakshi Amman temple in Chengam in South India on February 4.

Every year, an idol of goddess Kamakshi is brought out in a ceremonial procession during the festival.

On a street near the temple a 100-feet long pole is horizontally suspended with the help of a plinth.

The skin on the back of the devotees, who observe the ritual is pierced with iron hooks, which are then tethered to the pole. The legs and hands of the devotees are also fastened to the pole for additional support before they slide.

Many devotees do not slide down the pole but just stay suspended mid-air with hands folded and hanging just on the support of the iron hooks.

‘Poontherottam’ is popular with childless couple who believe that making the difficult offering will please the goddess who will bless them with children.

Many carry their babies while sliding as a thanksgiving gesture to the goddess.

A local resident Arunachalam said: “Temple officials walk right below the babies to make sure there are no mishaps.”