Lionel Messi Makes a Cultural and Conservation Visit to Vantara

Lionel Messi visited Anant Ambani’s Vantara wildlife conservation centre, taking part in Hindu rituals and exploring rescue facilities for big cats, elephants, reptiles and herbivores. Accompanied by Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, he praised India’s conservation efforts, interacted with animals including a rescued elephant calf, and lauded Vantara’s science driven, compassionate wildlife care.

After the global spotlight followed Lionel Messi to India, the football legend paid a special visit to Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation centre founded by Anant Ambani. His visit began in line with Sanatana Dharma traditions, reflecting respect for nature and all living beings. Messi took part in Hindu rituals and a Maha Aarti, offering prayers for peace and unity, while being welcomed with folk music, flower showers and ceremonial aarti alongside Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul.

During his tour, Messi explored Vantara’s vast ecosystem that shelters rescued big cats, elephants, herbivores, reptiles and orphaned animals from around the world. He closely observed advanced veterinary care, specialised nutrition and enrichment practices at the Herbivore, Reptile and Foster Care Centres, and witnessed live procedures at the multi speciality wildlife hospital. He also fed animals including giraffes, rhinos and elephants, and praised India’s leadership in wildlife conservation.

A highlight came at the Elephant Care Centre where Messi shared a playful football enrichment moment with Maniklal, a rescued elephant calf, creating a touching scene of joy and connection. In a symbolic gesture, Anant and Radhika Ambani named a lion cub Lionel in his honour. Messi described Vantara’s work as truly beautiful and expressed his desire to return, noting its alignment with the values of his Leo Messi Foundation and its mission of compassion and care.