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'It is very special place': Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata

'Second biggest reception'
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'Second biggest reception'

In 2008, Maradona received a grand reception in Kolkata. He famously called it "the second biggest reception after Napoli". 

A crowd of 15,000 had come to receive the 'Hand of God' at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. 
 

Maradona shows his magic
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Maradona shows his magic

'Cheerful' Maradona then made his way to the Mohun Bagan ground where he showed his skills by juggling the ball with his much-talked left foot. 

His wax statue and handshake!
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His wax statue and handshake!

Maradona went on the unveil his wax statue. He shook the statue's hand.  

Meets Pranab Mukherjee!
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Meets Pranab Mukherjee!

In 2008, Maradona even met the then defence minister Pranab Mukherjee. 

Charity match with 'Dada'!
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Charity match with 'Dada'!

Maradona had come to Kolkata again in 2017 to play a charity match with Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly. 
 

Maradona's love for Kolkata
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Maradona's love for Kolkata

In 2017, Maradona, known for his outspokenness and arrogance, gave a humble speech in Kolkata. "Kolkata is a very special place and I have good memories from my trip there many years ago (2008), the fans were fantastic." 

"I am not the god of football but a simple footballer," Maradona added. 

12-foot statue of GOD!
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12-foot statue of GOD!

Even though Maradona did not play the charity match with Sourav Ganguly, the Argentine unveil a 12-foot statue of himself.