Global football icon Lionel Messi on Tuesday visited Vantara, a shelter, rehabilitation and conservation center in Jamnagar, where he took part in traditional rituals and interacted with conservation teams at the facility founded by Anant Ambani.
Messi, accompanied by his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, received a traditional welcome, with folk music, floral greetings and a ceremonial ‘Aarti’.
During the visit, Messi toured Vantara’s conservation ecosystem, which is home to rescued big cats, elephants, herbivores, reptiles and foster animals.
He interacted with healthcare providers and veterinary staff and observed animal welfare practices, including specialized medical care, nutrition and rehabilitation protocols.
Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suarez pose with white tigers during a visit to Vantara, a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation center in Jamnagar. | Photo credit: Vantara via PTI
Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suarez pose with white tigers during a visit to Vantara, a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation center in Jamnagar. | Photo credit: Vantara via PTI
«What Vantara does is really beautiful, the work for animals, the care they receive, the way they are rescued and cared for. It is really impressive,» Messi said in a press release.
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“We had a great time, felt completely comfortable the entire time and it is an experience that will stay with you. We will definitely visit again to continue to inspire and support this meaningful work.”
Messi concluded his much-awaited GOAT India Tour on Monday after giving his fans a lifetime of memories following his visit to Delhi, the last leg of his three-day visit.
After a chaotic start in Kolkata on the tour’s first stop on Saturday, Messi visited Hyderabad and Mumbai before the Delhi leg of his whirlwind trip to India.
Published on December 16, 2025
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