At least 36 people have been killed and dozens injured during a stampede at a rally for actor-turned-politician Vijay – a huge star in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Ma Subramanian, the state’s health minister, said at least 40 people were injured at the event.

The official added that those who died included eight children, and that the 36 were dead by the time they were taken to hospital.

Indian media reports, quoting local officials, said the stampede was triggered when a group of Vijay’s supporters and fans fell while trying to get close to his bus.

Stampedes are relatively common in India when large crowds gather.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the latest version.

You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow us on WhatsApp and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.