Who is Satadru Dutta, organizer of Messi event in Kolkata?
What's the story
The "G.O.A.T. Tour of India 2025," featuring football legend Lionel Messi, ended in chaos at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. The event was marred by vandalism and unrest among fans, who were disappointed as they barely got a glimpse of the star. The situation led to the arrest of Satadru Dutta, the main organizer and promoter behind the event.
Event organizer
Dutta's role in organizing Messi's India tour
Dutta, a Kolkata-based sports promoter, is credited with bringing several global football legends to India. He founded "A Satadru Dutta Initiative," which combines sports promotion with celebrity management and social causes. He has previously worked with corporate firms such as L&FS and HSBC before venturing into sports marketing and philanthropy.
Fan frustration
Messi's arrival sparks unrest among fans
Messi arrived at the stadium around 11:30am to a human blockade of politicians, police officers, VIPs, and their aides. This left paying fans frustrated as they could not only not get close to him, but they also did not even get to see him. Despite Dutta's pleas over the public address system for people to vacate the ground, dignitaries continued to surround Messi.
Event disruption
Messi's brief appearance and early exit
Despite the chaos, Messi briefly met former Kolkata club players before exiting the stadium. His early departure left many fans disappointed as they had paid between ₹4,000 and ₹18,000 for tickets to see him. The unrest was further fueled by a group of nearly 100 people who surrounded Messi upon his arrival, including West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas, Mohun Bagan president Debasish Dutta, general secretary Srinjoy Bose, and members of Messi's entourage, including Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul.
Organizer's arrest
Dutta's arrest and promises of refund
After the event, Additional Director General Law and Order Jawed Shamim confirmed Dutta's arrest. He said, "The FIR has been lodged, and the chief organizer has been arrested." Dutta had promised fans that their ticket fees would be refunded. However, this incident has raised serious questions about crowd management and event planning at one of India's most iconic football venues.