New Delhi, Dec. 15 -- Kolkata's deep and emotional connection with football has once again grabbed global attention - this time with the unveiling of a towering 70-foot iron statue of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi holding the FIFA World Cup trophy. The massive installation, believed to be among the tallest Messi statues anywhere in the world, has quickly turned into a popular attraction for football fans and tourists alike.

However, the spectacle has also sparked a wider online debate on symbolism, national identity and sporting priorities in India.

German travel vlogger Alexander Welder, who recently visited Kolkata, shared a video on Instagram expressing shock at the scale of the statue. Standing in front of the installation, W...