Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 75 today (September 17) and social media is abuzz with wishes pouring in from across the globe. From Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, leaders and celebrities are sending their greetings. Adding to the celebrations, football legend Lionel Messi has made the day even more special with a unique gift for PM Modi.
What Messi sends PM Modi on his 75th birthday
Messi has sent his signed Argentina 2022 FIFA World Cup jersey as a special gift for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday.
“Messi has sent a signed jersey for PM Modi’s 75th birthday. When he comes to India, we will try to arrange his meeting with the PM. He has wished well for the Indian fans, and he is happy to come to New Delhi and Mumbai for the first time and meet his fans there,” Satadru Dutta, the sports entrepreneur and promoter of Messi’s tour, told IANS on Monday.
Messi will be visiting India later this year from December 13 to 15. His tour will begin in Kolkata on December 13, followed by Mumbai on December 14, and finally New Delhi on December 15, where he is expected to meet PM Modi.
Matches and stadium visits
Messi will have events at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium in New Delhi.
“He will come to India on December 13, first in Kolkata and then head to Mumbai on December 14 before leaving for New Delhi on December 15. He will have events in Salt Lake Stadium, Wankhede Stadium and Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium,” Dutta added.
Argentina to play friendly match in Kerala
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has also confirmed that Argentina is scheduled to play a friendly match in Kerala during the FIFA international window in November. Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman had earlier confirmed that Messi may lead his side in this match.
The Kerala Football Association (KFA) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) are working out the details and venue for the match. If Messi plays in Kerala as expected, Indian fans will get the rare chance to watch him twice in just two months.