This is the shocking moment a huge shrine collapsed onto devotees during a festival in India.

The temple chariot fell on worshippers during the Brahma Rathotsava event at the Bappanadu Durgaparameshwari Temple.

Footage shows revellers surrounding the dome-shaped shrine as it was paraded through Mulki town in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, on April 19.

Moments later, a part of the towering structure toppled and crashed to the ground mid-procession.

Terrified pilgrims can be seen scrambling to escape and avoid being crushed by the falling shrine.

Witnesses recalled that the priests were seated inside the chariot when the accident occurred, while thousands of devotees were pulling it through the streets.

Local media reported that the procession continued with the remaining chariots without further incident, though several revellers were said to have sustained injuries.

The temple is dedicated to the principal deity Shree Durgaparameshwari. A local legend said that it was established by a Muslim trader named Bappa, from whom the site takes its name.

The annual Brahma Rathotsava celebration is a major religious event held every April.