Graphic PHOTOS: Man trampled to death by an elephant after trying to take a selfie with it

This is the moment when an Indian man is trampled to death by a wild elephant after he tried to pose for a photo with the animal.

Ashok Bharti, 50, had reportedly been drinking alcohol before approaching the lone elephant near Kuanrmunda, Odisha state, eastern India.

However, as he tried to take a selfie with the elephant, the animal charged at him, leaving Mr Bharti running for his life. 

Mr Bharti tripped as he tries to flee the elephant.

The elephant then runs over Mr Bharti, from Rourkela, Odisha, and injured him severely.

An ambulance was called to the scene, but Mr Bharti died on the way to hospital, local news reports. 

The incident happened on Saturday morning when forest rangers were trying to rescue the elephant, which had become separated from its herd.