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Two die by suicide in Bengal amid alleged fear over SIR process
Kolkata: Two persons died by suicide within a span of 24 hours in West Bengals Malda district, allegedly triggered by fear and anxiety linked to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, police said on Saturday. On Friday night, a young man reportedly died after panicking over an error related to his fathers name on Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
VIPs first, fans later: How Messi tour's Kolkata flop exposed misplaced priorities
VIPs first, fans later: How Messi tour's Kolkata flop exposed misplaced priorities
Bhaichung Bhutia calls chaos at Messis Kolkata event disappointing
Bhutia was talking to reporters at the airport in Raipur after returning from Jagdalpur where he attended the closing ceremony of Bastar Olympic 2025 event
GOAT India Tour: What Messi says in Hyderabad visit after Kolkata fiasco
Football legend Lionel Messi captivated Hyderabad fans during his GOAT Tour of India. He interacted with supporters and played football. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were present. Security is heightened for his Mumbai visit. This follows a chaotic event in Kolkata where fans faced disappointment. Mumbai police are ensuring a safe experience.
SRK, AbRam share iconic moment with Messi in Kolkata
In a rare and star-studded moment, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan met football legend Lionel Messi on Saturday in Kolkata, marking one of the most-awaited encounters during the GOAT India Tour 2025. The Argentine superstar, who is in the city as part of his pan-India tour, was present at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt []
Hyderabad has a ball as Messi magic enthrals one and all
The disruption in Kolkata does not affect the proceedings in the City of Nizams; the Argentine superstar, Suarez and De Paul have a kickabout with 17 kids; the GOAT Cup trophy ceremony concludes the evening of celebration
Man hangs self from highway signage on Varanasi-Kolkata NH in Chandauli
Organizer of Messi Event Arrested After Stadium Chaos in Kolkata
Angry fans ran amok in Kolkata, clashing with police, after the Argentine football star could barely be seen from the stands because he was surrounded by a phalanx of people, among whom was the states sports minister AMN / KOLKATA Kolkata Police on Saturday detained Satadru Dutta, the main organiser of the event featuring Argentine []
Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour of India got off to a dramatic start on Day 1, with crowd chaos erupting in Kolkata before a well-managed, smooth event unfolded in Hyderabad. Here's a look at how the tour swung from disorder to calm across two cities.
Messi in Kolkata | Fans disappointed with the sheer mismanagement by the organisers
Hyderabad sets things right for Lionel Messi after Kolkata mess
Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour proceeded smoothly in Hyderabad after a chaotic start in Kolkata. The Argentine star participated in a penalty shootout and football clinics for children, receiving a warm welcome from fans and dignitaries. Messi will continue his tour in Mumbai and conclude in New Delhi with a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Dark Day For Kolkata: West Bengal Governor After Messi Event Descends Into Chaos
Governor CV Ananda Bose said organisers had callously commercialised Messis visit while ignoring the expectations of thousands of fans who had paid high ticket prices.
We are also covering: Sourav Ganguly, Organisers Requested Messi Not To Leave; Footballer's Team Denied: Report
Saffron Flag, ai Shree Ram Slogan Add Political Twist to Kolkata Stadium Rampage
TMC attacks BJP over the display
Affaire de Messi: All about Lionel Messi's India tour
Lionel Messi's brief appearance in Kolkata sparked outrage and chaos as fans, disappointed by the short duration, resorted to vandalism. Organizers faced immediate backlash, with the chief organizer detained and ticket refunds promised. Authorities launched an investigation into the mismanagement, while the All India Football Federation distanced itself from the privately organized event.
Mumbai police tightens security ahead of Messi visit on Dec 14 after fan outrage at Kolkata event
Messi is expected to visit Cricket Club of India for a Padel GOAT Cup event followed by a celebrity football match before proceeding to Wankhede Stadium for GOAT India Tour main event around 5 pm
'Unwanted VIPs': Indian legend Bhutia on Messi's Kolkata event fiasco
Former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia criticized VIP culture at Lionel Messi's Kolkata event, where genuine fans were denied access. The GOAT Tour's Kolkata leg saw fans express anger through vandalism after expensive tickets failed to guarantee a proper viewing of the star, leading to an organizer's arrest and a government investigation.
Chaos erupted at Lionel Messi's GOAT India tour event in Kolkata. Fans expressed anger over mismanagement and high ticket prices. Governor CV Ananda Bose criticized organizers for prioritizing profit over fan emotions. The organizer has been arrested. The state government is considering a judicial inquiry and ticket refunds. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologized to fans for the unfortunate incident.
Mismanagement of Messis Kolkata Trip Triggers Inquiry Ordered by Bengal CM
The unrest broke out soon after Messi left the venue much earlier than scheduled, triggering scenes of spectators uprooting plastic chairs, hurling bottles onto the pitch and attempting to breach barricades.
As MessiKolkata Visit Turns Messy, Event Becomes 'Political Football' For BJP & TMC Ahead Of Polls
Argentina's World Cup-winning captain was forced to leave the field early following widespread chaos at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday
Systemic Failure: West Bengal Governor Slams Messi Event Chaos In Kolkata
CV Ananda Bose's statement came after angry football fans stormed the field and vandalised Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday morning
IPL 2026 auction: What the ten teams have and who theyll be desperate to get
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi. Ten franchises will compete for 77 slots with a 237.55 crore purse. Teams need to fill gaps in pace, middle-order, and spin. Kolkata Knight Riders have the largest purse, while Mumbai Indians have the smallest. The auction will feature 350 players, including top international and domestic talent.
GOAT Tour: Organiser of Messi`s Kolkata event arrested hours after stadium chaos
Satadru Datta, the main organiser of the Lionel Messi`s Kolkata event was taken into custody by Bidhannagar Police at Kolkata airport, where he had gone to see off Messi and his entourage on their way to Hyderabad
Messis GOAT India Tour: Football icon reaches Hyderabad after Kolkata chaos
Messis itinerary in Hyderabad includes a highly anticipated 7v7 exhibition football match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, where Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is expected to join him on the field
KOLKATA: Both ruling Trinamool Congress and opposition BJP lashed out at the organisers of an event featuring Lionel Messi in Salt Lake stadium on Saturday, which ended in chaos as irate spectators went on a vandalisation spree for not having a proper view of the football icon. Demanding action against the organisers, TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said in a statement that the overzealousness of the organisers and people close to them to crowd Messi and take selfies with him prevented the spectators from the gallery, who shelled out hefty amounts for the event, from having a proper view of the football star, and it infuriated them. Why should no action be taken against the organisers for this mess? Why was there no proper planning? Why did chaos break out? It forced Messi to leave the stadium and the chief minister of West Bengal could not attend and accord him a warm welcome on behalf of the people of the state, the TMC state general secretary said. Describing the incident as a big let-down for the sport-lovers of the state, Ghosh said that in 2011, when Messi came to the stadium for the first time, the event was so well-organised. I remember there was a match and Messi took the corner kick 50 metres from my press gallery seat. Everything went off so smoothly and Kolkata held its head high then, he said. BJP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya alleged that some fraudsters, in their greed to mint money, created this situation. Stating that the entire responsibility for this mess lies with the state government, he alleged that TMC leaders indulged greedy organisers, who were busy with self publicity, depriving people, who bought tickets, to have a proper view of the football icon. Bhattacharya said that the incident tarnished the image of the state. Union minister and senior BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar slammed the TMC and the state administration for the chaos. Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly, Suvendu Adhikari alleged that ministers and leaders clung to Messi like leeches, while football fans who paid thousands of rupees were left watching him on the giant screen for barely a few minutes. In a post on X, Adhikari accused Sports Minister Arup Biswas, Fire Minister Sujit Basu and the organisers of turning the event into a money-making exercise. He also demanded a 100 per cent refund for gallery ticket-holders, arrest of those responsible, and sought Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's resignation for discrediting West Bengal before the world. The Congress also attacked the TMC government, with West Bengal state president Subhankar Sarkar describing the episode as errible mismanagement and a mockery of law and order. He alleged that in the name of Messi, tickets were sold at exorbitant prices to innocent fans, while the footballer was surrounded only by TMC leaders and members of their families. Crores of public money were spent so that TMC leaders could get photographs clicked with Messi. This is a new-age scam after Sarada and Narada, Sarkar alleged, demanding personal accountability of the organiser, and police and sports ministers and the local MLA. Congress spokesperson Suman Roy Chaudhuri echoed similar sentiments, demanding the arrest of the sports minister and questioning the role of the police administration. He alleged that the episode exposed the commercial face of the government and called for legal action over the mess. CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty termed the mismanagement a lack day for West Bengal, blaming the TMC government for failure of law and order. Drawing a contrast with the visits of football legend Diego Maradona during the Left Front regime, Chakraborty alleged that the government was more focused on making money in Messi's name than ensuring spectators' safety and experience.
The major news headlines of the day and more
Shah Rukh Khan exuded his signature charisma as he briefly interacted with Lionel Messi, shook hands, and clicked pictures. The meeting was made even more special as SRK's son, AbRam, also shared the joyous moment with the celebrated sportsman.
Who Is Satadru Dutta? Lionel Messi's Kolkata Event Organiser Arrested After Chaos At Studium
The marquee football spectacle turned into chaos as thousands of Messi's fans protested after failing to get a clear glimpse of the star and started throwing bottles and chairs.
Videos Show Angry Fans Throwing Bottles, Vandalising Kolkata Stadium After Messi's Visit
Lionel Messi's brief appearance at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan during his GOAT India Tour left Kolkata fans angry, sparking chaos and vandalism at the stadium.
'We travelled all the way...': Heartbreak for fans as organisers mess up Messi event in Kolkata
KOLKATA: What was meant to be a once in lifetime moment turned into a day of heartbreak for thousands of football fans who thronged the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, hoping to catch a glimpse of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi Messi was not clearly visible, as he was surrounded by organizers and security personnel. The expected penalty shootout did not take place, leaving fans angry and emotionally drained. We travelled all the way from Malaysia to get a glimpse of the GOAT, but we ended up leaving the stadium with much disappointment said Krishna, who along with his friends had spent around Rs 60000 for tickets for the event and flight tickets from Malaysia. We don't know whose fault this was, but at the end of the day, we are disappointed, he adds. Jimmy, a football fan from Kolkata, said he and others had made extensive preparations to see Messi in person and had booked tickets through District app by paying Rs 12,774. Even though we were seated in the front row, we couldn't get a glimpse of the legend. There was clearly no proper management, he said. He expressed his anger towards politicians, police personnel, media and crew who were around the footballer, while ticket-holding fans were sitting with a hope to get a glimpse. Some fans later gathered near Lionel Messis 70-ft tall statue created by artist Monti Pal and unveiled by Messi, expressing that while they could not see the real player, they were left with no option but to look at his statue at Lake Town in Kolkata. We could not see the real Messi, so we came here to at least see his statue, said a fan out of despair. A GOAL THIS! Disappointed fans taking selfie standing in front of the newly unveiled Lionel Messi statue in Kolkata, Saturday, Dec 13, 2025. Messi, who is on a three-day, four-city GOAT India Tour 2025, arrived at the Salt Lake Stadium around 11.30 am along with long-time strike partner Luis Surez and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul, and was the first to step onto the ground. Chaos erupted at the stadium after spectators, who had paid hefty sums to see the football legend, protested after being unable to catch a clear glimpse of Messi, as he remained surrounded by security personnel and others. Tempers flared when the Argentine star was escorted out of the stadium within minutes, well before several invited dignitaries arrived. Disappointed supporters hurled bottles onto the field and damaged banners, hoardings and plastic chairs in the galleries. Some spectators attempted to rip open gallery barricades and force their way onto the pitch, with police struggling to contain the situation, eyewitnesses said. Later, apologising to Messi and his fans, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered a high-level probe into the alleged mismanagement that led to chaos, even as the chief organiser of the event Satadru Datta was arrested by the police. Datta, promoter and chief organiser of the Kolkata leg of Messi's GOAT India Tour 2025, has reportedly given in writing that he will refund the prices of tickets he sold to the disappointed spectators. Chaos at Salt Lake Stadium as fans protest after missing glimpse of Messi Kolkata Messi event: Chief organiser arrested as Mamata orders high-level probe into alleged mismanagement
Messi arrives in Hyderabad for second leg of GOAT India Tour
Hyderabad: Argentine football icon Lionel Messi arrived in Hyderabad for the second leg of his GOAT India Tour 2025 on Saturday evening, after a chaotic start to the much-anticipated event in Kolkata. Argentine footballer Lionel Messi arrived at Taj Falaknuma Palace along with his Inter Miami teammates Luis Surez and Rodrigo De Paul. pic.twitter.com/BnrLRuPZmB The Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
'Private PR event' - AIFF distances itself from Messi's India tour
The All India Football Federation expressed concern over crowd control issues and security lapses at a Lionel Messi event in Kolkata. Thousands of fans were left unable to see the footballer due to VVIPs and security personnel surrounding him, leading to disruptions including thrown bottles and damaged stadium property.
Hyderabad: Security Beefed Up For Lionel Messi Match After Kolkata Incident
Messi will play at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium at Uppal this evening. Following reports of the chaos in Kolkata, Telangana DGP B. Shivadhar Reddy beefed up security at the stadium. A special team of sniffer dogs have also been deployed around the stadium
Kolkata: Governor outlines 5-point action plan after Salt Lake Stadium chaos, seeks accountability
Kolkata Ashamed: A Blame Game Over Messi Event Chaos And Refund Order
Thousands of football fans had gathered in Kolkata this morning to catch a glimpse of Lionel Messi. But what could have been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness live one of the greatest footballers of their times turned out to be a nightmare.
How Messi Reacted Amid Kolkata Chaos - Looked Confused, Bemused: Report
Lionel Messi's much-hyped visit to the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday lasted 22 minutes - just enough to underline everything that is wrong with Indian football
Messi in Kolkata: West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose condemns chaos
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose condemned the chaos during Lionel Messis visit to Kolkata, calling it a dark day for sports lovers. He blamed poor planning and policing, ordered action against organisers, refunds to fans and sought a judicial enquiry
Messi in Kolkata: Fans alleges event as `massive scam`
What was billed as the biggest sports show of the year turned chaotic in Kolkata as fans protested poor management during Lionel Messis appearance, accusing organisers and VIPs of hogging the football legends time and demanding ticket refunds
Chaos at Messi`s GOAT tour in Kolkata as fans vandalise stadium
Lionel Messis Kolkata leg of the GOAT Tour India 2025 turned chaotic after the football legend left early, triggering angry protests by fans at Salt Lake Stadium over poor event management, high ticket prices and unfulfilled promises
LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka shared a heartwarming note after meeting global football icon Lionel Messi during his Kolkata visit. The emotional post captured a rare crossover between cricket and football, leaving fans delighted as images from the special interaction went viral.
60 Hyderabadis pay Rs 10 lakh each for photo with Messi: Report
Hyderabad: After completing the first leg of his India tour in Kolkata, football legend Lionel Messi is now on his way to Hyderabad. The excitement around his visit is growing with every passing hour, as fans eagerly wait to catch a glimpse of the Argentine superstar during his Hyderabad stop as part of the G.O.A.T Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
How Kolkatas wait for Messi slipped into disorder - timeline of events
The citys long wait to see the Argentine star did not last long. Messi was forced to end his lap of honour at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan after the crowd surged towards the field. Bottles were thrown from the stands, and security staff escorted him off the ground within minutes.
Mera shaadi chhod ke aaya: Fan skips wedding for Messi; disappointed
Football fans in Kolkata faced disappointment as Lionel Messi's event ended abruptly. Crowd management issues led to frustration and anger among attendees. Many fans expressed dissatisfaction with the event's organization and their inability to see the star. Some fans made significant personal sacrifices to attend. The event left many with unfulfilled expectations.
Mamata Banerjee's Public Apology To Messi, Fans After Kolkata Event Chaos
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has apologised to Lionel Messi and his fans over the chaos that unfolded at his event in Kolkata this morning.
Angry fans have resorted to vandalising banners and seats after Lionel Messi was forced to stop his lap of honour due to overcrowding around him. Fans couldn't get a glimpse of Messi. Earlier today, Messi met SRK and his son AbRam and also posed for pictures.
Lionel Messis GOAT Tour in Kolkata marred by unrest; organiser detained, refunds announced
Fans expressed anger over mismanagement at Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour event in Kolkata. Ticket holders alleged poor organization and limited access to the football star. Police intervened to control a restless crowd. The main organizer has been detained. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologized and ordered an inquiry into the incident.
Prime organiser of Messi event in Kolkata detained over mismanagement
Satadru Datta was detained for alleged mismanagement of the event from the Kolkata airport where he had gone to see off Messi and his entourage on their way to Hyderabad
Angry fans throw chairs and bottles at Messi event in India
The Inter Miami and Argentina forward is in India for his 'GOAT tour', taking in events in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.
Chaos At Salt Lake Stadium Over Messi Event; Mamata Orders Probe, Apologies To Fans
KOLKATA, Dec 13: Chaos erupted at the Salt Lake stadium here on Saturday as thousands of fans protested after failing to get a clear glimpse of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi during a much-hyped event, prompting police to baton-charge and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to order a high-level enquiry. What was billed as a marquee football spectacle turned into anger and disorder as Messis brief and tightly ring-fenced appearance, his first at the venue since 2011, left large sections of [] The post Chaos At Salt Lake Stadium Over Messi Event; Mamata Orders Probe, Apologies To Fans appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
How Lionel Messis Kolkata visit turned chaotic: A complete timeline of events
Lionel Messi's much-anticipated Kolkata visit concluded abruptly. Thousands of fans faced disappointment as the planned event descended into chaos. Severe mismanagement and crowd unrest marred the occasion. Messi's appearance at Salt Lake Stadium was cut short. Fans expressed anger and frustration. The football legend was escorted out for safety.
Political Blame Game Erupts Over Chaos During Lionel Messis Kolkata Visit
Chaos during Lionel Messis Kolkata visit has sparked a political blame game, with BJP and Congress accusing the TMC government of mismanagement and politicisation of the global event.
After Kolkata chaos, where will Messi visit next on his GOAT India Tour?
Chaos marred Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit as overcrowding and poor crowd control led to his early departure from Salt Lake Stadium. Fans expressed anger and disappointment, with the Chief Minister issuing an apology and ordering an inquiry. Messi's GOAT India Tour continues to Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, with organizers now under pressure to ensure smooth events.
Messi in Kolkata: BJPleaders,GovernorAnanda Bosequestion governments role
Trinamool distances itself from the chaos, and blames privateorganisersfor mismanagement
Chaos in Kolkata: Messi Frustrated, Organiser Arrested, Fans Set Dugout on Fire
What was supposed to be day of unbridled celebration translated into a day of utter chaos.
Mamata Banerjee after chaos at Kolkata stadium as `Sincerely apologise to Messi`
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered a high-level enquiry and apologised to Lionel Messi and fans after chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata over alleged mismanagement during the football icons brief appearance
Lionel Messi's much-anticipated Kolkata appearance descended into chaos after crowd surges cut short his lap of honour at Salt Lake Stadium. Amid the chaos, Satadru Dutta is gaining prominence as he is the man behind the Lionel Messi's India GOAT Tour 2025. He has already brought football legends like Pele, Diego Maradona, and Cafu to India.
Chaos At Salt Lake Stadium Over Messi Event; Mamata Orders Probe, Apologises to Fans
It was a dark day for the sports-loving people of Kolkata, says Governor CV Ananda Bose
A Messi affair: What led to the chaos at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium? Explained
Lionel Messi's highly anticipated G.O.A.T. Tour stop in Kolkata was marred by chaos due to poor crowd management and security lapses. Thousands of fans were left disappointed as the event was cut short, with objects thrown and chairs damaged amid visible anger.
Shah Rukh Khan meets Lionel Messi in Kolkata
In the videos circulating on the internet, the superstar is seen greeting Messi on his Kolkata visit
'We want our money back': Rs 12,000 ticket for glimpse of Messi
Fans erupted in chaos and vandalized the Salt Lake Stadium after Lionel Messi's early departure from the GOAT Tour event in Kolkata. Spectators, having paid hefty sums, expressed fury over the mismanagement and inability to see the football legend, demanding refunds and calling the event a scam.
Lionel Messis GOAT Tour event in Kolkata turned chaotic after poor arrangements sparked fan outrage at Salt Lake Stadium. Vandalism followed as Messi was escorted out within minutes amid tight security. Many spectators, who had paid hefty amounts ...
Chaos at Salt Lake stadium in Kolkata as fans erupt after failing to see Messi
The police had to baton-charge to disperse the crowd on the field
'Sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi': Mamata orders probe over mismanagement at Kolkata event
KOLKATA:Stating that she was shocked and deeply disturbed by the mismanagement at the Lionel Messi event in Kolkata , Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday announced the constitution of a high-level committee to probe the incident. Banerjee said she was on the way to the Salt Lake stadium to attend the event, along with thousands of fans, who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the football icon. I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident, she said in a post on X. I am constituting an enquiry committee under the chairmanship of Justice (Retd.) Ashim Kumar Ray, with the Chief Secretary and the Additional Chief Secretary, Home and Hill Affairs Department, as members, she added. Banerjee said the committee will conduct a detailed enquiry into the incident, fix responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. Once again, I extend my heartfelt apologies to all sports lovers, she said. Messi's brief visit to the city descended into chaos as angry fans broke security protocols after failing to catch even a glimpse of the worlds most popular footballer during his blink-and-miss 22-minute appearance at the Salt Lake stadium in the morning.
Disturbed And Shocked: Mamata Banerjee Apologises Over Chaos At Messis Kolkata Event
Chief Minister announced the formation of an enquiry committee to investigate the cause of the chaos.
Messi to visit Hyderabad: His net worth 2025, annual income and more
Hyderabad: Football legend Lionel Messi has arrived in India after 14 years, and fans across the country are celebrating his return. Messi is visiting India from December 13 to December 15 as part of his GOAT India Tour 2025. The tour begins in Kolkata, a city that shares a deep emotional connection with the Argentine Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IPL 2026 auction: What each team needs and how much they can spend
IPL 2026 auction is set for Abu Dhabi on December 16. Ten teams will compete for 77 player slots with a total purse of over 237 crore rupees. Kolkata Knight Riders have the largest purse and most vacancies. Mumbai Indians have the smallest purse. A total of 359 players are shortlisted for the mini-auction.
Lionel Messi's appearance at Kolkata's Vivekananda Yuvabharati Salt Lake Stadium turned chaotic as fans, who had paid up to Rs 5,000, grew restless due to his brief stay on the field. Amid this, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued an apology and ordered an enquiry after fans felt shortchanged by Messi's short appearance, leading to unrest and vandalism at the stadium.
Breakdown of Law and Order: Fans on rampage as Messis Kolkata tour turns Messy
KOLKATA:Lionel Messis brief visit to Kolkata descended into chaos as angry fans broke security protocols after failing to catch even a glimpse of the worlds most popular footballer during his blink-and-miss 22-minute appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday morning. What was meant to be a red-letter day for football fans in the City []
Chaos erupt at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium as fans protest after failing to see Lionel Messi
Messi mania grips Kolkata as thousands welcome Argentine icon on Saturday
The Barcelona legend`s 2.26 am touchdown in the early hours of Saturday sent the city into a frenzy
Messi's Kolkata visit ENDS in chaos, fans demand refunds, accuse ministers of...
Angry fans accused the Ministers and politicians of hogging Messi's time and not delivering on promises.
Mandir-Masjid: How competitive faith politics is recasting Bengal's 2026 poll battle
KOLKATA: As West Bengal heads into an election year, a spate of templemosque announcements, scripture spectacles and date-sensitive symbolism is pushing the states politics into unfamiliar territory, sharpening communal polarisation in a borderland shaped by Partition memories, demographic anxieties and a coexistence periodically tested by political mobilisation. From the bordering Murshidabad district to the planned township of Salt Lake on the eastern fringes of Kolkata, faith has emerged as the most audible idiom of political mobilisation, often drowning out conversations on migration, jobs, prices and governance, as rival players test how far religious assertion can stretch Bengals electoral grammar ahead of the Assembly polls. The immediate spark came on December 6, which marks the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition. Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir pressed ahead with laying the foundation stone of a mosque modelled on the original Babri structure in Murshidabads Rejinagar, under unprecedented security cover. Kabir argued that the political moment itself had shifted. People are trying to pretend that faith has no place in Bengals politics. That phase is over. Whether one likes it or not, questions of identity, dignity and religious rights will shape the next election. The next elections will be fought on questions of honour and belonging. Anyone denying that is not reading the ground, Kabir told PTI. In nearby Banjatiya in Murshidabad, BJP leaders also conducted groundwork rituals for a Ram temple, framing it as resistance to what they called minority appeasement. Elsewhere, the saffron party sharpened its pitch around cultural assertion, while the TMC moved quickly to distance itself from Kabirs actions. Bengals culture has never supported competitive religious politics. The party believes faith is personal and politics must remain inclusive. We will not allow Bengal to be converted into a laboratory for polarisation experiments borrowed from elsewhere, TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said. The response underlined the partys political tightrope managing a minority base that accounts for nearly 30 per cent of the electorate, while arresting signs of Hindu drift amid intensifying identity politics. On December 7, Kolkatas Brigade Parade Grounds, the most politically loaded public stage, hosted a massive Bhagavad Gita recital projected as five lakh voices chanting together. Senior BJP leaders and nationally known monks filled the dais, even as organisers insisted the event was spiritual rather than political. Kabir was quick to announce a similar Quran recital event in Murshidabad district. Political scientist Maidul Islam said this is a very new phenomenon in Bengal politics. Leaders like Humayun Kabir and parties like the BJP and AIMIM are consciously trying to import Hindi heartland narratives into Bengal. Dates, symbols and mass religious performances these are not accidental, he told PTI. BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya said that when one side uses religious symbolism to consolidate its vote bank, the other cannot be expected to remain silent. The politics of selective secularism will no longer work in Bengal. For decades, Hindu sentiments were pushed to the margins of the states political discourse. This is about to change, he claimed. For decades, Bengals political mobilisation rested largely on class, language and welfare, with religion operating as a secondary identity marker. Even during earlier communal flare-ups, mainstream parties avoided sustained, competitive religious symbolism. However, Murshidabad, where Muslims form a numerical majority and memories of Partition displacement remain alive, has emerged as the epicentre, with mandirmasjid politics increasingly dominating public conversation. In Salt Lake, posters appeared announcing an Ayodhya-style Ram temple complex with a hospital, school and old-age home. The proposed foundation ceremony is slated for Ram Navami next year, signalling how religious symbolism is now being projected deep into spaces associated with governance and power. When templemosque politics moves from border districts to planned urban centres, it signals ambition, not spontaneity, political analyst Biswanath Chakraborty said, adding that it reflects an attempt to normalise religious assertion as mainstream electoral language. The Congress and the Left, reduced to the margins in Bengal, have warned of historical repetition. We know where competitive communalism leads, state Congress chief Subhankar Sarkar said, recalling the countrywide violence that followed the Babri demolition in the 1990s. Bengal is a border state born of Partition, its social fabric shaped by refugee influx, demographic churn and episodic violence. While it never fully followed the Hindi heartlands template of sustained religious polarisation, the scars remain real and politically exploitable. When economic distress dominates daily life, sudden mandirmasjid politics signals a deliberate narrative shift, political scientist Subhomoy Moitra said. With the Assembly elections months away, Bengal appears headed into a season of competitive symbolism, where mosques and temples are no longer merely places of faith but strategic markers on a polarised political map. Whether this moment hardens into lasting division or recedes under electoral pragmatism may shape not just individual political fortunes but the future trajectory of Bengals political culture itself.
'Total Embarrassment': BJP Slams TMC Over 'Zero Management' At Messi's Kolkata Event
Chaos erupted at Kolkatas Salt Lake Stadium as Lionel Messis brief appearance left fans frustrated, leading to protests and vandalism.
Angry fans on rampage as Messis Kolkata tour turns Messy
Kolkata: Lionel Messis brief visit to Kolkata descended into chaos as angry fans broke security protocols after failing to catch even a glimpse of the worlds most popular footballer during his blink-and-miss 22-minute appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday morning. What was meant to be a red-letter day for football fans in the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Watch: Shah Rukh Khan greets Lionel Messi warmly, AbRam asks for autograph
Shah Rukh Khan arrived in Kolkata with son AbRam ahead of his meeting with football legend Lionel Messi. The global icons shared warm moments and posed for photos. King Khan even unveiled the 70 mm statue of footballer
Football legend Lionel Messi's visit to Kolkata faced significant disruptions. Frustrated fans resorted to throwing bottles and attempting to breach gates at Salt Lake Stadium. The highly anticipated GOAT Tour was cut short due to the chaos. Many fans were unable to catch a glimpse of the star, leading to disappointment and security concerns.
Chaos erupted at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium during Lionel Messi's brief visit, with angry fans throwing projectiles after being unable to see the football icon due to mismanagement. The BJP criticized the Trinamool Congress for the otal embarrassment on an international stage, highlighting wasted fan efforts and zero planning for the highly anticipated event.
Lionel Messi virtually unveils his 70-foot statue in Kolkata
Football legend Lionel Messi virtually unveiled a massive 70-foot statue at Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town, Kolkata, during his GOAT Tour India 2025, drawing huge crowds and sparking celebrations among fans across the city
The enthusiasm of people to see their favourite football player was evident at the airport. Some diehard fans who could afford to book the rooms in the grand hotel even did so. Scroll down to know the details of his room in Hyatt Regency, Kolkata.
Bottles thrown, banners vandalised: Messi forced to exit stadium
Football icon Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit was a whirlwind of adoration and disruption. While a massive crowd caused chaos during his stadium appearance, leading to security concerns, fans also celebrated his legacy with a 70-foot statue unveiling. Messi's return after 14 years ignited immense enthusiasm, highlighting his enduring popularity.
Watch: Messi meets SRK, poses with AbRam in Kolkata
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi is currently on a three-day tour of India.
Shah Rukh Khan FINALLY meets Messi - WATCH
Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan finally met his football idol, Lionel Messi, in Kolkata. The actor, accompanied by his son AbRam, shared a heartwarming fan moment with the Argentine legend. Messi warmly greeted AbRam, signing his jersey, before shaking hands with Khan. This highly anticipated meeting of two global stars quickly went viral online.
Lionel Messi virtually unveils his 70-foot statue at Lake Town in Kolkata
The unveiling drew a huge crowd of fans who gathered in Lake Town to witness the moment
Messi Arrives In India In Gulfstream V Jet: Know Cost, Facilities, Range
Lionel Messi-mania has clearly gripped Kolkata. Thousands braved the December chill and waited past midnight to give a rousing welcome to the Argentine superstar footballer
Watch: Messi Clicks Picture With AbRam Khan, SRK's Reaction Can't Be Missed
Argentina football great Lionel Messi's 70 feet statue was unveiled in Kolkata on Saturday at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, accompanied by his son AbRam, met football legend Lionel Messi at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium. The highly anticipated encounter happened ahead of Messi's virtual statue unveiling, creating a stir on social media. Fans celebrated the historic meeting of two global icons. Scroll down and take a look!
Shah Rukh Khan and AbRam meet Messi as fans erupt in cheers - WATCH
Football legend Lionel Messi virtually unveiled his 70-foot statue in Kolkata as part of his GOAT India Tour 2025. The event, attended by Shah Rukh Khan and Luis Surez, saw the Argentine star honored with an iron statue depicting him with the FIFA World Cup trophy.
LIVE: Messi Arrives at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata
The Argentine football legend arrived in the City of Joy early on Saturday morning to an overwhelming reception
Watch: SRK keeps promise, meets Messi, AbRam steals spotlight
Kolkata: Worlds greatest footballer Lionel Messi has finally touched down in India for his much-anticipated GOAT Tour, during which he will be visiting multiple cities across the country, beginning with Kolkata on December 13. And now, the moment everyone had been waiting for has truly arrived. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan had promised he would Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
