Football icon Lionel Messi captivated Indian fans not just with his presence on tour but with his heartfelt embrace of Indian traditions during his visit to Vantara wildlife sanctuary in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Videos that have gone viral across social media platforms show the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner chanting Hindu mantras including “Jai Mata Di” and “Har Har Mahadev” while performing Shiv Abhishek, a traditional Hindu ritual of bathing the Shiva Lingam with sacred offerings. The Argentine football legend was accompanied by Anant Ambani and his wife Radhika Merchant during the temple visit.
Messi’s Four-City India Tour
The Inter Miami forward’s India visit marked his return to the country after 14 years, with stops in Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, and Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. He was joined by teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul for promotional events across these cities.
The highlight of the tour came when Messi visited Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation center operated by Anant Ambani in Jamnagar. Visuals released by Reliance Industries showed Messi touring the facility, interacting with rescued animals, and participating in religious ceremonies at local temples.
Viral Temple Moments
In clips circulating on social media, Messi can be seen actively participating in Hindu rituals, chanting sacred mantras, and showing genuine reverence during the Shiv Abhishek ceremony. The footage has garnered millions of views, with Indian fans praising the football superstar for his respect toward local customs and traditions.
“Namaste India” – Messi’s Gratitude Message
After departing India for Argentina to enjoy his off-season break, Messi shared an Instagram post expressing his appreciation for Indian hospitality. “Namaste India! What incredible visits to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Thanks for the warm welcome, great hospitality and all the expressions of love throughout my tour. I hope football has a bright future in India!,” the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner wrote.
During the final event in Delhi, Messi addressed fans directly: “Well, I just want to thank everyone for the love and affection during these days in India. In fact, it was a truly beautiful experience for us to be able to share it. And although it was short and intense, it was wonderful to receive all this love that I knew existed, but receiving it directly was amazing.”
The Argentine captain promised to return to India, stating: “So, we carry all this love with us, and we will definitely return, hopefully one day to play a match or on another occasion, but we will definitely return to visit India.”
Meeting Indian Legends
During his tour, Messi met with Indian football icons Sunil Chhetri and Bhaichung Bhutia. He gifted Chhetri an Argentina national team jersey, while cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar presented Messi with an Indian cricket team kit during their meeting.
Historic Connection
Messi’s 2025 visit marks his first return to India since 2011, when he played an international friendly match in Kolkata for Argentina against Venezuela. That match held special significance as it was the first time Messi captained the Argentine national team.
The football legend’s cultural immersion and genuine appreciation for Indian traditions have strengthened his connection with Indian fans, leaving a lasting impression on the country’s growing football community.
