Indian worshippers hurled stones at each other to mark an ancient human sacrifice ritual.

Local men took part in ‘Pathron Ka Mela,' a unique centuries-old festival held after Diwali in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh, on October 21.

Footage shows two groups of men - the Katedu, representing the royal family, and Jamogi, representing the villagers - throwing small stones at one another.

After offering prayers, both sides began the traditional ritual game.

The event ends when blood flows from an injured participant, which is then applied to the forehead of a statue of the goddess Kali, a Hindu deity representing destruction, creation, time, and protection.

The stone fight lasted around 45 minutes and stopped when an elderly man named Subhash from the Katedu group was wounded.

Following the ritual, members of the royal family and fair committee organisers offered prayers at a nearby temple.

This long-standing tradition began centuries ago, introduced by a local royal family as a symbolic substitute for actual human sacrifice. It reflects the community's devotion and is believed to bring blessings and prosperity to the region.

Locals believe the ritual protects the Dhami area from natural calamities and illnesses.