Lionel Messi Faces Embarrassment During India Visit as Political Controversy Erupts
Kolkata: Several awkward incidents marred the visit of world-renowned footballer Lionel Messi to India, triggering strong backlash from Indian social media users against their own government and event organizers.
🚨Can you IMAGINE?
The BJP CM was felicitating Bollywood actors like Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff.
Even Messi and De Paul looked amused standing aside, probably thinking, “What the hell is happening here?”
The crowd at Wankhede was continuously booing during this.😭 pic.twitter.com/Kc135gTnBx
— Mohit Chauhan (@mohitlaws) December 14, 2025
During an event in Kolkata, angry fans resorted to throwing bottles and chairs onto the ground and vandalizing property after Messi left without meeting supporters. Fans said they had spent thousands of rupees but were unable to catch even a glimpse of the football star.
– Didn't greeted Messi
– Asked De Paul to move aside
– Chewing gum while taking SelfieIs she serious? Why show so much unnecessary attitude?pic.twitter.com/EhRnpCR3of
— Selfless⁴⁵ (@SelflessCricket) December 14, 2025
The controversy intensified when Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his wife came under heavy criticism for presenting gifts to Bollywood actors Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff on the field, while Messi, along with footballers Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, were seen standing aside. Critics pointed out that the event had been organized primarily to honor Messi.
It was an event for Messi.
But Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis turned it into a complete clown show.
First, he brought his wife, Amruta, who ended up embarrassing Indians.
Then he facilitated gutkha-Chaap actors Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff.
Even messi was seen frustrated… pic.twitter.com/dAE3LcVlYZ
— Dr Nimo Yadav 2.0 (@DrNimoYadav) December 14, 2025
Later, the Chief Minister’s wife was seen taking photographs with Messi, further fueling public outrage. Social media users criticized her conduct, calling it inappropriate and embarrassing for the country. A user named Dr. Namo Yadav wrote that the event was meant for Messi but was turned into a “mockery” by the Chief Minister.
According to critics, the Chief Minister first introduced his wife, followed by Bollywood celebrities, leaving Messi visibly uncomfortable. Some users claimed Messi appeared displeased by the situation.
Amruta Fadnavis looking so irritating & ridiculous with that chewing gum and showing so much attitude while taking selfie twice. De Paul and Messi were literally laughing at her 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/nHAqDik2C5
— sohom (@AwaaraHoon) December 14, 2025
Several social media posts expressed regret and apologized to Messi and his global fan base, stating that such behavior by political figures had brought embarrassment to India. One user commented that the Chief Minister’s wife appeared arrogant while chewing gum and repeatedly taking selfies, while Messi and De Paul were seen laughing at the situation.
Another user, Tejas, remarked that it was shameful that Indians themselves provided foreigners an opportunity to mock the country.
She is the wife of Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis. She took 2 to 3 selfies with Messi, and she was continuously chewing the gum.
This is literally embarrassing, man. We Indians ourselves give the opportunity to foreigners to troll us 💔pic.twitter.com/9MVZypksgI
— Tejash (@Tejashyyyyy) December 14, 2025
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media regarding event management, political conduct, and the treatment of international sports icons during high-profile visits.
