This is the baffling moment Indian devotees drank air con discharge that they mistook for holy water.

Footage shows superstitious locals gathering around an elephant sculpture dripping with what they believed to be 'Charan Amrit' or the 'elixir of life' at the Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura City, Uttar Pradesh state, on November 3.

The elephant sculpture was said to be integrated with the temple's architecture and air conditioning system.

Despite warnings that the liquid was actually air con condensation, the individuals reportedly carried on collecting the water, which they drank from cups or their palms.

Temple worker Dinesh Goswami, speaking to local media after the incident, said: 'We respect the faith people have in God, but it's essential to inform them.

'The water they believe to be ‘Charan Amrit' is actually just water from the AC. The real ‘Charan Amrit' would contain ingredients like Tulsi and rose petals.'

Charan amrit, which means 'nectar of the feet' in the Sikh tradition, refers to water that is used to wash the feet of a Guru or holy person in Sikhism, symbolising spiritual purification and reverence.

Devotees may drink or apply the blessed water as an act of humility and to seek divine grace and blessings.