The recent visit of global football icon Lionel Messi to India transcended sports, weaving together threads of conservation, culture, and an extraordinary display of luxury. The defining moment of this high-profile trip was a gift of staggering opulence: an ultra-rare Richard Mille watch, reportedly valued at Rs 9.94 crore (approximately $1.1 million), presented to him by Anant Ambani.
The Multi-Crore Horological Gift
During his tour of Vantara, the expansive wildlife rescue and conservation initiative founded by Anant Ambani, Messi was initially seen without a timepiece. However, as the visit progressed, observers noted the Argentine superstar sporting an exceptionally rare watch. This was identified as the Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon 'Asia Edition'.
This timepiece is not merely expensive; it is a pinnacle of exclusivity. The model is limited to just 12 units worldwide, making it one of the brand's earliest and most iconic creations. The watch features a manual-winding tourbillon movement with complications including a dual time zone display, function selector, and power reserve indicator. Its 38mm case is crafted from Carbon TPT, a high-tech material derived from aerospace and Formula 1 engineering.
A Display of Rare Watches and Shared Passions
The exchange of luxury was not one-sided. Anant Ambani himself was spotted wearing a watch that arguably upstaged even his gift to Messi. He had on the Richard Mille RM 056 Sapphire Tourbillon, a unique, one-of-a-kind masterpiece valued at a staggering $5 million (roughly Rs 45.59 crore). This sighting underscored the event's atmosphere of unparalleled luxury.
Beyond the glittering accessories, the visit highlighted a genuine, shared interest between Messi and Anant Ambani: wildlife conservation. Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, engaged deeply with the purpose of Vantara. He toured the facilities, interacted with caregivers and protection teams, and gained insights into the centre's mission.
Cultural Immersion and Traditional Welcome
Messi's journey in India was also a profound cultural experience. He and his teammates received a vibrant traditional welcome featuring folk music, a ceremonial aarti, and a shower of flower petals. Demonstrating respect and curiosity for local traditions, Messi actively participated in a Maha Aarti at the temple, which included rituals like Ambe Mata Puja, Ganesh Puja, Hanuman Puja, and Shiv Abhishek. Reports indicate he offered prayers for global peace and harmony, embracing the spiritual aspect of his visit.
The convergence of a global sports legend, India's business royalty, a cause like wildlife conservation, and displays of extreme luxury created a unique narrative. While the Rs 9.94 crore watch became the sensational headline, the visit painted a broader picture of cross-cultural connection and philanthropic alignment, leaving a memorable imprint beyond the football field.
