Lionel Messi is once again poised to make history in India, not on the football pitch, but in the hearts of millions of fans. This Saturday, the Argentine superstar will unveil a massive 21-meter (70-foot) iron statue of himself in Kolkata as part of his highly anticipated three-day "GOAT Tour."

Although Messi will not be physically present due to security concerns, he will reveal the towering monument virtually. The statue depicts Messi in one of the most iconic moments of his career, lifting the 2022 World Cup trophy, a memory that remains vivid for football lovers around the world.

The excitement in India, especially in Kolkata, is palpable. A special "Hola Messi" fan zone has been created, featuring a life-sized replica of Messi seated on a throne, honoring his status as the "Greatest of All Time." The fan zone even includes a recreated version of his Miami home, complete with mannequins representing his family.

For fans like 64-year-old Samir Nandy, the event is a dream come true. “Legends are not made by success alone; it is his resilience that made me believe in him,” he said. “This statue is a fitting tribute.”

The sculptor behind the giant structure, Monty Paul, shared that the statue took just 40 days to complete, a remarkable achievement considering its size and detail. “It’s a matter of pride to build the sculpture of Messi,” Paul stated. “It’s the tallest statue I have made.”

Messi’s GOAT Tour is expected to include visits to four Indian cities, and there are even talks of a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With the country buzzing in anticipation, one thing is clear: India is ready to celebrate the legend like never before.