Seemingly possessed students roared like wild animals during a bizarre religious ceremony in Thailand.

The pupils wore traditional masks and costumes while acting like monkeys, tigers, and other wild animals as they were sprinkled with holy water during a wai khru Buddhist ritual in Uthai Thani province on May 15.

Thai classical music played in the background as the strange rite commenced, with some of the participants crawling on the temple floor when supernatural beings allegedly took over their bodies.

The ritual is held for students to pay respects to their teachers and the holy spirits. Offerings of fruit, flowers, and Bai Sri - an ornament usually made of banana leaves to symbolise fertility, longevity, and good fortune - were also made.

The event was hosted by Kaewphet Manerhapanyo, a pupil of many trusted monks in Thailand.