Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:56am on 17 Dec 2025,Wednesday Sports
Global football icon Lionel Messi visited Vantara, a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, founded by Anant Ambani, blending cultural immersion with nature care. Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, received a traditional Indian welcome with folk music, floral greetings and a ceremonial aarti, participating in Hindu rituals for peace and unity. He toured Vantara’s expansive conservation ecosystem, observing rescued lions, tigers, elephants, reptiles and other animals under advanced care, and interacted with veterinary teams. A lion cub was named “Lionel” in his honour, highlighting appreciation for his visit and the centre’s mission. (PC: X)
