I think I watched a show on this festival on National Geographic Channel last year.

The still pictures just really don't do it justice.

Apparently, if the participants stay in trance they don't feel pain, don't bleed, and are able to make a several mile trek up a hillside to the temple ... some with multiple fishhooks inserted in their backs with very heavy things attached to them.

If they come out of trance, well, let's just say it's not pretty.

I like the "Possessed" guy. I can do that. But I choose not too. Don't like looking the fool on purpose. Oh wait. That's all the people on that page.
I like the people in the background - can't tell if they're gazing on in awe, or thnking "what the F did you go and do that for?"

Gives me the idea to eat a kebab ! :)