Asansol gets lifelike Lionel Messi statue, football fans throng unveiling

A lifelike wax statue of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi was unveiled in Asansol on Sunday evening by State Labour, Law and Justice Minister Malay Ghatak, drawing large crowds of football enthusiasts. The installation has sparked excitement among residents, many of whom gathered to witness the unveiling and capture photographs with the statue.

The statue has been crafted by Sushanta Roy, a sculptor from the Mohishila area of Asansol. Roy completed the detailed wax figure in just two months, presenting what many locals describe as a unique cultural gift to the city. Though smaller in scale, the statue stands out for its intricate craftsmanship and striking facial resemblance to the football icon.

The unveiling follows a similar wave of admiration seen in December 2025, when a 70-foot iron statue of Messi was inaugurated at Lake Town in Kolkata by Sreebhumi Sporting Club. That installation, depicting Messi celebrating Argentina’s 2022 Qatar World Cup triumph, was virtually inaugurated by the player during his “Goat India Tour 2025” and became a symbol of India’s deep passion for football.

In Asansol, the wax statue has created a festive atmosphere, with football lovers lining up to view it and take selfies. Local residents believe such initiatives enhance the city’s cultural and sporting identity, reinforcing its reputation as a vibrant and football-loving hub.