The air crackled with anticipation as news broke: Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest footballer of all time, was embarking on his "GOAT India Tour 2025" in December. The tour, encompassing Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, sent waves of euphoria through the nation's football-loving populace. However, what truly cemented this tour in the annals of Indian sports history was a unique tribute during the annual Durga Puja festival: a life-sized statue of Messi erected in a Kolkata pandal.
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharadotsava, is a major Hindu festival honoring the goddess Durga and commemorating her victory over Mahishasura. Celebrated with immense fervor in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Odisha, the festival transforms cities into vibrant spectacles of art, culture, and devotion. In 2025, Durga Puja was celebrated from September 21st to October 2nd, with the main festivities occurring during the last five days. Streets are decked up with festive lights and pandals are erected by communities.
Satadru Dutta, the mastermind behind the "GOAT Tour," recognized the immense popularity of Messi in India, where he enjoys a "demigod-like status". To capture Messi's attention and solidify the tour, Dutta orchestrated a special tribute during Durga Puja. A 25-foot-high mural dedicated to Messi, featuring messages and artwork from fans, was displayed at strategic pandal-hopping locations. The centerpiece of this tribute was the unveiling of Messi's largest statue. This statue, capturing Messi in his iconic Albiceleste jersey, became an instant sensation, drawing massive crowds and media attention.
The statue served as more than just a symbol of admiration; it became a cultural bridge, connecting the passion of Indian football fans with the global icon. The image of Messi, a sporting hero, integrated into the vibrant tapestry of Durga Puja, a festival deeply rooted in Indian tradition, resonated powerfully. This innovative approach caught the attention of Messi himself.
Dutta's efforts also included a Durga Puja tribute and key calls with Messi Sr. Dutta explained that during Durga Puja, he created a huge statue of Messi as a tribute to his World Cup win. All of that became part of the build-up, and eventually he got a connection that allowed him to meet Jorge Messi, his father.
The tour itself is a meticulously planned affair. In Kolkata, Messi is scheduled to participate in the "GOAT Concert" and the "GOAT Cup," sharing the field with Indian sports icons. A food and tea festival will highlight Messi's fondness for Argentine tea, featuring a special Assam fusion. In Hyderabad, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is set to play alongside Messi. Mumbai will host the "Padel GOAT Cup," potentially featuring celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan. The tour culminates in Delhi with a meeting between Messi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Lionel Messi statue in the Durga Puja pandal became a powerful symbol, representing the fusion of sport and culture, and ultimately, played a significant role in sealing the deal for the "GOAT India Tour 2025". It was a testament to the dedication of Indian fans and the enduring appeal of a global icon.
