Chinese locals mutilate their bodies with swords & axes for religious festival (Disturbing Photos)

Sharp objects like swords axe etc were pushed through devotees’ cheeks as Chinese communities across Southeast Asia celebrated Thailand’s gruesome vegetarian festival – the annual Taoist Nine Emperor Gods festival.

Throughout the week, these people will go vegetarian and show their religious devotion through ritualistic self-mutilation and pain trials, including running over hot coals and piercing their bodies.

 

 See more photos below.