Shah Rukh Khan Welcomes Lionel Messi to Kolkata for Giant Statue Unveiling

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan met football legend Lionel Messi in Kolkata on Saturday. The historic meeting preceded the virtual unveiling of a massive 70-foot statue of Messi. The event took place at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town.

West Bengal Minister Sujit Bose was also present. He confirmed Messi’s team had consented to the statue installation. According to ANI, further interaction with the football icon was planned for the day.

Giant Tribute to a Football Legend Installed in City

The 70-foot iron statue is a major new landmark. It depicts Messi holding the FIFA World Cup trophy aloft. This symbolizes his historic 2022 World Cup win with Argentina.

The statue has drawn immense attention from local fans. It celebrates Messi’s global legacy in a city passionate about football. Its installation was a coordinated effort between the club and Messi’s management.

Messi’s Whirlwind India Tour Kicks Off in Kolkata

Lionel Messi arrived in Kolkata in the early hours of Saturday. He was accompanied by teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. Excited fans gathered at the airport, chanting and waving flags.

Heavy security whisked Messi away through a VIP exit. This left many waiting fans disappointed. A large convoy then escorted him to his hotel where another crowd had assembled.

His India tour includes several major cities. Stops are planned for Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. Messi is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday.

The meeting between two global icons highlights Kolkata’s vibrant cultural scene. The giant Lionel Messi statue now stands as a permanent tribute to sporting greatness in the city.

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What is the height of the new Lionel Messi statue?

The new statue honoring Lionel Messi stands 70 feet tall. It is made of iron and located at a sporting club in Kolkata. The statue shows him holding the World Cup trophy.

Who was with Shah Rukh Khan to meet Messi?

Shah Rukh Khan was accompanied by his youngest son, AbRam Khan. West Bengal Minister Sujit Bose was also present at the event for the statue’s virtual unveiling.

Which other cities will Lionel Messi visit in India?

After Kolkata, Lionel Messi’s tour will include Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. His itinerary also includes a meeting with the country’s Prime Minister.

How did fans react to Messi’s arrival in Kolkata?

Fans gathered at the airport chanted and waved flags. Many were disappointed when security moved him quickly through a VIP exit. Crowds also waited at his hotel to catch a glimpse.

Did Lionel Messi approve the statue in Kolkata?

Yes. According to Minister Sujit Bose, Messi’s management team gave full consent for the statue. They were reportedly happy with the tribute.