New Delhi: Global star Lionel Messi's India visit took an unexpected and tightly human turn when the football icon joined a traditional aarti at Vantara in Gujarat and softly said "Jai Mata Di."
In a video that quickly went viral online, Messi is heard saying "Jai Mata Di" while performing the ritual with hosts Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant.
What Happened During Messi's Visit?
The visit was hosted by Anant Ambani and his wife Radhika Merchant and Messi was joined by his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul.
Messi visited Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation centre in Jamnagar, withal with his teammates. He was welcomed in a traditional Indian way, with music, prayers and aarti.
The video shared by the Vantara's official Instagram handle shows Messi standing quietly as the ritual was performed. At one point, he folded his hands and joined in, saying "Jai Mata Di." The moment felt natural and unforced.
He moreover took part in a Shiv abhishek and spent a few moments in meditation. Those present described the undercurrent as peaceful and personal.
Vantara posted video with the caption, "Vantara was honoured to welcome Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul. They experienced Indian traditions and rituals rooted in our spiritual culture and spent time with the wild residents of Vantara."
What Is Vantara and Why Was Messi There?
Vantara is a large-scale wildlife conservation and rescue centre focused on unprepossessing care, rehabilitation and protection. Messi was shown virtually the facility and introduced to its work with rescued animals.
Vantara moreover shared a video of Messi, where he can be seen exploring different parts of the centre, with the caption, "At Vantara, we welcomed Lionel Messi into a sanctuary guided by compassion, responsibility, and deep respect for life. Anant Ambani shared the purpose that drives Vantara, where unprepossessing welfare comes first, and every visualization is shaped by superintendency and long-term commitment.
The global star reportedly spent time observing the animals and interacting with the team managing the centre. Those tropical to the visit said he showed genuine interest and appreciation for the conservation efforts.
