Chaos erupted in front of a streetside restaurant that offered free food for an hour, with police having to use batons to disperse a massive crowd that caused a traffic jam in India.

Footage shows the hungry mob gathered outside the Aazebo Bukhari Mandi Hotel in Hyderabad, in India's state of Telangana, on March 12, after it announced free meals in honour of the holy Islamic month of Ramadan.

Many had gathered on the street, blocking the roads as they refused to leave.

Police officers were called to the scene and reportedly had to use mild force to control the situation.

Several people were injured after police used batons to disband the mob.

Police said the hotel had not sought permission for the offer, and a case against the hotel management for nuisance and traffic congestion was registered at the Malakpet police station.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims worldwide.

It is a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims.

During Ramadan, observant Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and certain other physical needs during daylight hours as a form of spiritual discipline, self-control, and empathy for those less fortunate.