This is the bizarre moment childless women were trampled by men in India as part of a ritual believed to help them conceive.

Footage shows women lying on the ground as members of the Baiga tribe walk over them at the Maa Angarmoti Temple in Gangrel, Chhattisgarh, on November 8. This ritual is called Paran.

The fair, held annually on the first Friday after Diwali, draws locals from Chhattisgarh and surrounding areas, with deities from 52 villages participating.

Reports say more than 500 married women took part in the ceremony.

It is believed that by having the Baiga tribe walk over them, the women receive blessings from Mata Angarmoti and their wish for a child will be granted.

During the Hindu ritual, the women lie on their stomachs, holding lemons, coconuts, and other offerings as part of the prayer ceremony.